Lived Religion and Human Experience

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

This is a course on world religions. We'll focus all of our attention in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. We will also cover parts of Confucianism, Taoism, and New Religious Movements.

False (B)

Religious studies and theology are very similar fields of study that generally ask the same types of questions about religion and use the same disciplinary tools.

False (B)

Religious studies is highly interdisciplinary and frequently draws on evidence and methods from psychology, political science, anthropology, sociology, history, and the sciences to draw conclusions about religion.

True (A)

I may only use the sources in this course as my basis for contributing to discussion.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

I should use evidence to challenge people's beliefs, conclusions, and arguments in this class when I find them problematic.

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

This course will teach me basic trivia (e.g., word lists and concepts) about major world religions such as Buddhism, Sihkism, Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Theology focuses on the human dimensions of religion.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

In this module, when we say we are "rethinking" religion, we mean that we are demanding that you criticize and change your religious beliefs to a new, rational system.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Our preferred method for defining and studying religion in this course derives from the methods of sociology.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is lived religion?

Lived religion refers to the way individuals experience and practice their faith in everyday life, highlighting personal beliefs and daily rituals rather than formal doctrines. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of an entangled religion?

A family celebrating Christmas, incorporating both religious and cultural customs. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of established lived religion?

Regular attendance at Sunday church services and adherence to church doctrines. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of interstitial lived religion?

Individuals engaging in personal meditation or prayer outside of a traditional worship setting. Signup and view all the answers

How is lived religion related to embodiment?

Lived religion relates to embodiment as it emphasizes how religious beliefs are expressed and experienced through the body. Practices like rituals, prayer postures, and even physical spaces (like temples or churches) contribute to how individuals embody their faith in tangible ways. Signup and view all the answers

How does lived religion connect with emotions?

Lived religion is deeply connected to emotions, as religious practices often evoke feelings of joy, peace, community, or even fear. Emotions can shape how individuals connect to their faith, influencing their spiritual experiences and sense of belonging. Signup and view all the answers

What is Émile Durkheim's key idea about society and individuals?

Émile Durkheim believed society shapes individuals through shared norms and values. He saw religion as key to social unity by providing common morals. Signup and view all the answers

What is the social role of a totem in Durkheim's theory?

In Durkheim's theory, a totem serves as a symbol of the community, embodying shared beliefs and values. It represents the collective identity and serves as a focus for rituals, reinforcing social cohesion among members. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Durkheim's concept of humans as "double."

Durkheim suggests that humans are "double" because they exist in both individual and collective forms. Individuals have personal identities, but they also belong to and are shaped by the larger community, reflecting a dual nature. Signup and view all the answers

What is collective effervescence?

Collective effervescence is the heightened energy and emotional intensity experienced during communal religious rituals or gatherings. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of collective effervescence?

Examples can be found in large worship services, religious festivals, or social movements that evoke a strong sense of unity among participants. Signup and view all the answers

Why do Christians in Eastern Kentucky and Tennessee handle snakes?

For Christians who handle snakes in Eastern Kentucky and Tennessee, snake-handling serves as a demonstration of faith and obedience to biblical teachings. Signup and view all the answers

According to snake-handlers, what does snake-handling justify?

They justify their practice as a test of faith and a way to experience God's power, driven by motivations of devotion and spiritual authenticity. Signup and view all the answers

What are the sociological circumstances that led to the rise of snake handling?

McVicar suggested that snake-handling grew in the early 20th century due to religious revivalism, the desire for direct faith experiences, and as a reaction against mainstream Christianity. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the Pentecostal consensus on snake handling.

Some embrace snake-handling as faith, others see it as dangerous, reflecting diverse beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

How does Durkheim's theory apply to the practice of snake handling?

Snakes symbolize danger and divine protection, strengthening community identity and bonds. Signup and view all the answers

Explain secularization and its relationship to religion.

Secularization suggests religion fades in modernity, but spirituality still exists in varied forms. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it inaccurate to assume all religious "nones" are alike?

Not all religious "nones" are alike; they may differ in beliefs, values, and reasons for identifying as non-religious. Some may be spiritual but not affiliated with a religion, while others may reject all forms of spirituality. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Basil find Orthodox Christianity to be a meaningful alternative to being a "None"?

In the film Becoming Truly Human, "Basil" (Nathaniel Jacobs) finds Orthodox Christianity to be an adequate answer to the inauthenticity he experienced as a "None" because it provides a rich tradition, deep community connection, and a structured approach to spirituality that he finds meaningful. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the various perspectives on tattoos in Christian communities.

Christian communities discussed tattoos in various ways, with some seeing them as expressions of faith and others viewing them as inappropriate or distracting. Perspectives may vary due to differing interpretations of scripture, cultural backgrounds, and personal beliefs about body modification. Signup and view all the answers

How does Durkheim's theory relate to the concept of material religiosity using items like WWJD bracelets?

Items like WWJD bracelets symbolize faith and identity, evolving with cultural shifts. According to Durkheim, their meanings may evolve over time, reflecting changing cultural contexts while still serving as symbols of faith and community. Signup and view all the answers

What are some key questions to ask practitioners to understand the internal diversity within religions?

To analyze these diversities, questions to practitioners could include: What personal experiences shape your beliefs? How does your culture influence your religious practices? Signup and view all the answers

What is the central question of this course?

The central question of this course is to understand the role you play in the creation of the world. That is, how do we shape our own meaning, and how does the interaction with the world (including the physical and social world) influence our understanding of it? Signup and view all the answers

How is this course different from a "World Religions" class or a theology class?

World religions classes offer a general overview of major religious traditions, while theology focuses on studying the beliefs and doctrines of a specific religion. This course takes a more interdisciplinary and critical approach, exploring the human dimensions of religion, including its role in society, culture, and identity. Signup and view all the answers

Define empathy in the context of religious studies. How does it apply to this course?

Empathy involves understanding the world using terms of another in a manner that they'd understand and perceive as their own. It means putting yourself in someone else's shoes, seeing the world through their lens, and understanding how they experience religion. Signup and view all the answers

What does empathy NOT mean and NOT do in the context of religious studies?

It DOES NOT mean agreement with that worldview, but it may mean at the very least understanding their emotional responses. IT IS NOT the emotion you feel when someone else feels sad or happy. Signup and view all the answers

What's so difficult about the study of religion?

There is no universally agreed-upon definition of religion, and everyone experiences religion differently. It encompasses numerous areas, including history, culture, philosophy, and personal experiences. The sacred nature of religion for some individuals contrasts with the neutral perspective of academic study, creating a potential conflict in how religion is approached. Signup and view all the answers

There's one preferred theory and method for the study of religion.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Define "theodicy." Can you provide an example of a theodicy that we've seen in this course?

Theodicy is an explanation or defense of how a good, all-powerful God can allow evil, suffering, or injustice to exist in the world. It tries to answer the question: If God is all-good and all-powerful, why is there evil? An example of a theodicy from many religious traditions is the concept of free will. The idea is that God gave humans free will to make their own choices, and as a result, some choose to do evil. Signup and view all the answers

Why isn't "cult" a category of analysis that we frequently use in religious studies?

In the study of religion, the word "cult" is not frequently used as a category of analysis because the term has taken on negative, judgmental connotations, often being associated with extreme or harmful practices. Signup and view all the answers

Define the "Lottery of Birth" as discussed in the film. How does this idea relate to religious studies?

The "Lottery of Birth" refers to how a person's identity, opportunities, and challenges are shaped by factors beyond their control, like where and to whom they are born. In a religious studies class, this idea connects to discussions on free will, theodicy (why God allows suffering), and the fairness of life. Different religions offer explanations for life's inequalities, like karma or divine will, which help shape views on justice and moral responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of the sacred and the profane as defined by Mircea Eliade.

Sacred: Extraordinary, special, connected to the divine or ultimate reality. It brings order, meaning, and transcendence. Profane: Ordinary, everyday, not spiritual. It's the world of routine and mundane things. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of the sacred vs. the profane?

Sacred place: A church or temple (a space for divine connection). Profane place: A house or workplace (just part of daily life). Sacred moment: Religious rituals or holidays. Profane moment: Daily chores or casual activities. Signup and view all the answers

How do symbols create an "aura of factuality" according to Clifford Geertz?

Clifford Geertz said that symbols create an "aura of factuality" by making beliefs and practices feel real, shaping how people understand their world and reinforcing social norms and values. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Peter Berger's concept of externalization.

Individuals create cultural and religious symbols through their actions, beliefs, and practices. This step involves people expressing their understanding of the sacred through rituals, stories, and community norms. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Peter Berger's concept of objectivization.

Once these symbols are created, they take on a life of their own. They become established and recognized within society as shared realities. For example, rituals become traditions, and beliefs are codified into texts or doctrines. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Peter Berger's concept of socialization.

Through the process of socialization, individuals are taught the rules, roles, and norms of their society, reinforcing the existing social order. Signup and view all the answers

How does "power" differ from "authority" in Strenski's framework? Why does this distinction matter?

In Strenski's framework, power refers to the ability to influence or control others, often through force, coercion, or manipulation. It can be wielded without the consent of those being influenced. Authority, on the other hand, is the legitimate, accepted right to exercise power, often based on social structures or belief systems. Authority is granted by others and recognized as rightful or just. This distinction matters because authority implies a relationship of trust and consent, while power can exist even when it's resisted or viewed as illegitimate. Understanding this difference helps us analyze how religious, political, or social leaders gain influence: through either accepted authority or raw power. It also highlights the importance of legitimacy in sustaining long-term control or leadership in a community. Signup and view all the answers

Define "epistemology." How does understanding it aid our study of religion?

Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that examines the nature and limits of knowledge, exploring how we know what we know and the justification of beliefs. Understanding epistemology is vital in the study of religion because it reveals how religious knowledge is constructed and validated, highlighting differences in belief systems across traditions. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that "facts are social?"

Saying that "facts are social" means that what we consider facts is often shaped by social contexts and collective beliefs. In religion, this implies that accepted religious truths can vary between communities, emphasizing the subjective nature of belief and knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four contexts of lived religion?

The four contexts of lived religion are personal, social, cultural, and historical. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four types of lived religion?

The four types of lived religion are entangled, established, institutional, and interstitial. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Galtung's Triangle. Differentiate between manifest and latent violence.

Direct Violence: Physical, visible acts of harm, like war, murder, or assault. Structural Violence: Inequalities or injustices built into systems, like poverty, racism, or sexism. Cultural Violence: Beliefs or ideologies that justify violence, like religious extremism or nationalism. Manifest vs. Latent: Direct Violence is observable and immediate (manifest). Structural and Cultural Violence are often hidden and operate behind the scenes (latent). Signup and view all the answers

What are the objectives of the "Religion in Public Life" section of this course?

Purpose: To examine how religion shapes society, laws, and identity. Key Topics: The role of religion in politics and public decisions. Debates about the separation of church and state. Whether religion unites people (e.g., interfaith dialogue) or divides them (e.g., religious conflict). Signup and view all the answers

Explain the cycle of war in the post-9/11 context.

What Is It? A pattern where violence leads to retaliation, which causes more violence. Post-9/11 Example: The 9/11 terrorist attacks → U.S. War on Terror → Increased extremism and terrorism in response. This cycle continues as new conflicts arise from each response. Signup and view all the answers

How do symbols play a role in Geertz's framework, particularly in the context of post-9/11?

What Geertz Said: Religion uses symbols to create meaning and emotional responses to events. Post-9/11 Symbols: American Flag: Unity and patriotism. Religious Symbols (crosses, prayers): Faith and comfort. World Trade Center (WTC): A symbol of loss and vulnerability. Why Symbols Matter: They help people make sense of trauma and feel connected to a larger purpose. Signup and view all the answers

What is jihad and how is it often misinterpreted?

Literal Meaning: "Struggle" or "effort" in Arabic. Types of Jihad: Greater Jihad: The inner struggle to live a good life and stay faithful to God. Lesser Jihad: External actions, like defending the Muslim community when under attack. Misconception: While some extremists misuse jihad to mean "holy war," the term is much broader and primarily non-violent. Signup and view all the answers

Who was Usama bin Ladin and what were his objectives for the 9/11 attacks?

Who Was Bin Ladin? The leader of al-Qa'ida and mastermind of the 9/11 attacks. 9/11 Objectives: Draw the U.S. into prolonged wars in the Middle East. Damage U.S. global influence and alliances. Signup and view all the answers

What is al-Qa'ida and what are its objectives?

What Is Al-Qa'ida? Means "The Base." A global extremist group that aims to establish an Islamic caliphate and opposes Western intervention in Muslim countries. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the historical experience of Muslims in the United States.

Early Presence: Muslims arrived as African slaves in the 1600s. 19th/20th Century: Many faced discrimination and were categorized as "non-white" in U.S. laws, leading to exclusion and marginalization. Post-9/11: Discrimination and Islamophobia worsened, with Muslims stereotyped as threats. Signup and view all the answers

Contrast the views of Thich Nhat Hanh and Wirathu Ashin.

Thich Nhat Hanh: A Vietnamese Buddhist monk who advocated for peace and nonviolence. He believed Buddhism should promote reconciliation and inclusivity, even in politics. Wirathu Ashin: A Myanmar monk who promoted anti-Muslim rhetoric and believed Buddhism should protect Buddhist identity through nationalism, often excluding others. Comparison: Hanh: Focused on compassion and peace. Wirathu: Focused on protecting cultural identity, sometimes through exclusion. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the statement: "identity depends upon cultural and social context."

Explanation: We define ourselves based on how we relate to others, such as contrasting with or aligning with different groups. Evidence: LGBTQ+ identities often form in opposition to heteronormative cultural expectations, creating a clear sense of "self" and "other." Signup and view all the answers

Explain the statement: "Identity is formed in relation to other identities."

Explain the statement: "Identities are never singular but always plural."

Explanation: People have multiple, overlapping identities (e.g., race, religion, gender) that interact in complex ways. Evidence: A Muslim American might navigate being both a religious minority and a patriotic citizen, balancing these layers of identity. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the statement: "Identities are not fixed."

Explanation: Identities change over time due to personal growth or external influences like new experiences or societal shifts. Evidence: Miami University's transition from a Presbyterian-affiliated institution to a public university reflects how institutional identity evolves. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the statement: "Identities are intertextual."

Explanation: Our identities draw from many sources, like history, literature, media, and culture, all interacting together. Evidence: Native American identities are interwoven with spiritual beliefs, oral traditions, and legal battles over land. Signup and view all the answers

Define Identity Salience. Provide examples.

What It Is: Identity salience refers to how prominent or important a specific aspect of identity becomes in a particular context. What Causes It: Situations where an identity is highlighted or challenged (e.g., wearing a hijab in a predominantly non-Muslim space). Social movements or political events (e.g., Pride parades for LGBTQ+ visibility). Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of "in-groups" and "out-groups" in relation to identities.

Explanation: Identities create in-groups (people who share similar traits or beliefs) and out-groups (those seen as different). These divisions can foster belonging but also lead to exclusion or prejudice. Example: Post-9/11, Muslims were often viewed as an out-group in the U.S., leading to stereotyping and discrimination. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Robert Bellah's concept of "civil religion."

What It Is: A shared, non-denominational set of beliefs and rituals that bind a nation together. Examples in Daily Life: National holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving). Sacred texts (e.g., the Declaration of Independence). Rituals like the Pledge of Allegiance. Signup and view all the answers

How does sound play a role in Balinese civil religion?

Explanation: In Bali, music and sound are central to religious ceremonies, creating a shared sense of community and spiritual connection. Example: Gamelan music is used in temples to bring people together in worship and celebration, reinforcing communal identity. Signup and view all the answers

How does music relate to identity?

Explanation: Music reflects cultural values and personal identity. It can unite communities or express individual beliefs. Example from Module: National anthems post-9/11 were used to express patriotism and resilience, shaping American identity. Signup and view all the answers

Explain Bruce Lincoln's distinction between myth and history. Why is this distinction important for the study of religion?

Myth: A sacred narrative explaining the origins of a culture or belief system, often symbolic and not strictly factual. History: A factual account of past events, grounded in evidence. Why It Matters for Religion: Myths reveal how groups construct meaning, values, and identity, even if the stories aren't historically accurate. Signup and view all the answers

How is land and territory connected to Native American identities?

Hopi, Wintu, Lakota, Myaamia: Land is sacred and central to their identities, tied to spiritual beliefs and community traditions. Disputes over land highlight tensions between indigenous rights, property laws, and capitalist interests in the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

Discuss Miami University's religious history and its transformation over time. Why is it relevant to our study?

What It Was: Founded as a Presbyterian institution. Religion shaped early education and values. What It Is Now: A secular public university, reflecting broader societal shifts toward inclusivity and diversity. Why Include It: Examining Miami's history helps connect religion, identity, and community, showing how institutions evolve alongside cultural changes. Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the claims and challenges we've explored throughout this semester?

Religious studies requires empathetic perspectives: Example: Examining Native American sacred land claims requires understanding their spiritual connection to land rather than viewing it only through legal or economic frameworks. Challenge: Empathy can be hard to maintain when discussing contentious topics, such as extremism or terrorism in Module 4. Religions differ: Example: Christianity and Islam differ in core practices like sacraments vs. prayer rituals, but both emphasize community worship. Module 2 explored diversity within a single religion, showing how sects like Sunni and Shia Islam differ yet share foundational beliefs. Religions change: Example: Miami University's transition from a Presbyterian institution to a secular one. Challenge: Some traditions resist change, viewing it as a loss of authenticity. Religions are constructed: Example: Bruce Lincoln's view that myths are constructed to legitimize power, like the founding myths of the U.S. as a "city upon a hill." Religion is already there: Example: Durkheim's theory of religion as a social institution, evident in national rituals like Independence Day or civic religion. Signup and view all the answers

Why can't scholars agree on a definition of "religion?"

Reason: Religion is multi-dimensional (beliefs, practices, institutions) and varies across cultures. A single definition might exclude important aspects. Will There Be One? Unlikely, because religion is inherently fluid and context-dependent. Example: Is Buddhism a religion if some practitioners view it as a philosophy? Signup and view all the answers

What role does empathy play in religious studies?

Definition: Empathy means understanding a religious perspective on its own terms, without imposing bias. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is the main focus of this course?

This course focuses on understanding religion not as a collection of facts, but as a lived experience and its impact on individuals and societies. It aims to help students develop empathetic perspectives and critical thinking skills when analyzing diverse religious expressions.

What is Lived Religion?

Lived Religion refers to how individuals experience and practice their faith in everyday life, emphasizing personal beliefs, daily rituals, and cultural traditions.

Entangled Lived Religion

Entangled Lived Religion is a type of lived religion that is closely intertwined with cultural traditions and personal experiences.