What Is Religion?

Religion is a cultural system of beliefs, values and practices that provide meaning and purpose in life. It also provides a moral framework for action and may inspire people to work for social change. It includes a set of beliefs about the nature of reality and the universe, along with rituals, moral behavior, and worship. The term is a broad category that includes diverse traditions such as Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism and Islam, Judaism, Shinto, and Zoroastrianism. It also refers to a variety of mystical experiences that are ascribed religious value, such as visions, miracles and dreams. In addition, many of the world’s cultures practice some form of funeral rites.

Historically, scholars have defined religion by the presence of belief in an unusual kind of reality. The work of Emile Durkheim, Lucien Febvre and Marc Bloch in the nineteenth century marked a break with this politico-historical approach to the study of religion (see the article on History of religion). These researchers developed what is known as a functional definition that emphasizes the role that religion plays in society.

As the work of the sociologists and historians of religion progressed in the twentieth century, it became increasingly apparent that religion is a powerful force in most societies. It provides a sense of shared morality, gives meaning and purpose to life, and promotes the psychological and physical well-being of individuals. It provides a cohesive force that holds communities together and helps to explain the origins of human existence. In fact, some researchers suggest that it is this function that most often distinguishes religious communes from those motivated by secular ideologies in 19th-century America (see the article on Religion and Community).

Some argue that to understand the concept of religion requires a shift of attention from hidden mental states to visible institutions. Others, like the sociologist Talcott Smith, argue that a belief in the supernatural is not required to be a religion. This debate is not settled yet.

A religion’s functions can be both comforting and terrifying. It can give meaning and purpose to life, reinforce social unity and stability, serve as an agent of social control, promote psychological and physical well-being, and motivate people to work for social change. However, as the experience of Puritans and other groups throughout history demonstrates, religion can also promote social conflict and even lead to persecution, torture, wanton bloodshed and war.

Ultimately, a definition of religion must be flexible enough to encompass the wide range of possible forms of spirituality and faith. It must also be clear enough to make it useful for research and practical applications. This is a challenge that scholars of religion are still working to overcome.