Religion
SOCI2301: Introduction to Sociology
Antonella Nash-Shaw
Date: January 19, 2021
1. What is a religion?
, Religion
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, religion is having belief in and reverence for a
supernatural power recognized ad the creator and governor of the universe. It is also defined as
the spiritual and emotional attitude of one who recognizes the existence of a superhuman’s power
or powers.
2. Three roles and functions of religion
First religion gives meaning and purpose to life. It is without a doubt that many things in
life are difficult to understand. However, having religious faith and beliefs can help many people
make sense of this that science cannot. For example, in Christianity, the meaning and purpose of
life are that the reason why we as humans exist is to be stewards of God and worship God in
obedience. Being affiliated with religion can serve as a reason to preserve one's life. If a person
thinks that they have no purpose on earth it is without a doubt that religion can change that
person’s perspective of their life.
Another function is that religion reinforces social unity and stability. This was one of
Emile Durkheim’s most important insights. He stated that the communal practice of religion, as
in houses of worship, brings people together physically which facilitates communication and
other social interactions thus strengthening their social bonds. For example, look at conventions
for any given religion. This aids in having people with common set values beliefs norms to come
together and communicate with each other which maintains socialization order in any given area.
This allows people to teach each other and also learn new things.
Lastly, religion promotes social integration. Social integration is the process by which
separate groups are combined into a unified society putting aside differences. Religion plays an
important role in crystalizing, symbolizing, and reinforcing common values and norms. In all
religions, their followers are taught how to be respectful, common courtesy, morals (right from
SOCI2301: Introduction to Sociology
Antonella Nash-Shaw
Date: January 19, 2021
1. What is a religion?
, Religion
According to the American Heritage Dictionary, religion is having belief in and reverence for a
supernatural power recognized ad the creator and governor of the universe. It is also defined as
the spiritual and emotional attitude of one who recognizes the existence of a superhuman’s power
or powers.
2. Three roles and functions of religion
First religion gives meaning and purpose to life. It is without a doubt that many things in
life are difficult to understand. However, having religious faith and beliefs can help many people
make sense of this that science cannot. For example, in Christianity, the meaning and purpose of
life are that the reason why we as humans exist is to be stewards of God and worship God in
obedience. Being affiliated with religion can serve as a reason to preserve one's life. If a person
thinks that they have no purpose on earth it is without a doubt that religion can change that
person’s perspective of their life.
Another function is that religion reinforces social unity and stability. This was one of
Emile Durkheim’s most important insights. He stated that the communal practice of religion, as
in houses of worship, brings people together physically which facilitates communication and
other social interactions thus strengthening their social bonds. For example, look at conventions
for any given religion. This aids in having people with common set values beliefs norms to come
together and communicate with each other which maintains socialization order in any given area.
This allows people to teach each other and also learn new things.
Lastly, religion promotes social integration. Social integration is the process by which
separate groups are combined into a unified society putting aside differences. Religion plays an
important role in crystalizing, symbolizing, and reinforcing common values and norms. In all
religions, their followers are taught how to be respectful, common courtesy, morals (right from
