Religion and Related Topics (Coursework Sample)

Religion Assignment
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Question One
Explain the three major theories of religion's purpose
One of the theories of religion’s purpose is the functional theories. According to functional theories, religion has social or psychological benefits for both individuals and groups (Jost,2020). These views contend that religion plays certain social roles. The theory of Karl Marx  for example explores the function of religion as a social control mechanism in both capitalism and pre-capitalist societies. The second theory is one of social relational theories, which is concerned with the social structure and characteristics of religious practices and beliefs. These ideas place a strong emphasis on how religion affects interpersonal relationships and their community components. Religion is thought to confront the nature of existence through interpersonal communion and the transcendence of socially based ontologies of time, space, embodiment, and knowledge, according to social relational theories. Through highlighting the connections between religious experiences and social dynamics, they seek to move beyond the opposition between the immanent and the transcendent. The third theory for religious purpose is the substantive theories; these theories concentrate on the principles and personal significance of many faiths (Sagiv, Schwartz, 2022). They contend that people have faith because religious convictions offer meaning and clarity. For instance, the views put out by Tylor and Frazer focus on how important religion is to its believers as an explanation.
Explain the difference between atheism, agnosticism, theism, deism, and pantheism.
The idea that God does not exist is what defines atheism. According to atheists, a rational conclusion of non-belief is reached in the absence of proof or logical arguments in favor of the presence of a higher power. They claim that the onus of proof rests with those who assert the existence of God, and until such proof is offered, they will continue their skepticism. Agnosticism holds that the presence of God is ultimately unknowable or unknown. Given the lack of concrete proof, agnosticism acknowledges the possibility of the existence of a divine being but does not endorse or reject it. Theism is based on the idea that there is a loving and benevolent God. Theistic views place a high value on holy books, religious rituals, and divine revelation. Theists look to their relationship with God for comfort, direction, and meaning, frequently turning to rituals and worship in order to gain moral direction and spiritual fulfillment. Deism is a