3 definitions of Religion

Three Definitions of Religion:

1-Substansive definition

• Concerned and focus on the content of religion
• Weber- defines religion as belief in a superior or supernatural that is above nature and cannot be explained scientifically.
• Substanstive definitions are exclusive, drawing a clear line between religious and non religious beliefs. To be a religion, a set of beliefs must believe in God or the Supernatural.

X-defining religion in this way leaves no room for beliefs and practices that perform similar functions to religion but do not involve a belief in God.

2- Functional Definition

• Focus on the social or psychological functions it performs for society and individuals.
• Durkheim- defines religion in terms of contributions it makes to social integration rather than to any specific belief in God or Supernatural.
• Inclusive- so brings everybody in and…