Religion is a secondary structure of awareness, which arises when humans transform their immediate perception of the world into specific meanings and qualities. The religious worldview is a secondary set of practices and beliefs. But how do humans get from the flux of immediate perception to a religious worldview? This question is the subject of a Sociological perspective on religion.
Sociological perspective on religion
A sociological perspective on religion focuses on the different functions that religion plays in a society, how it influences daily life and the problems it can perpetuate. This view has numerous positive aspects. In particular, it can help people increase their sense of self and well-being. Additionally, it can motivate individuals to work toward social change.
Functions of religion
Functions of religion include integrating society and providing moral guidance and support. It also provides emotional support and rites of passage. It provides answers to difficult questions and acts as psychotherapy. It is also an effective tool for depoliticization. In addition, religion controls sexuality.
Creeds
The question of the role of creeds in religion is an important one. Because of the close relationship between creeds and scriptures, there is often misunderstanding surrounding them. Ultimately, Scripture is the supreme standard of faith and life. Holy Scripture is infallible and applies to every generation. This means that creeds are only secondary to Scripture.
Social solidarity
Religion provides us with a means of understanding the world, and it therefore plays an important role in the creation of social solidarity. This is because religious beliefs are internalized and accepted as a part of our knowledge. Such internalization creates a sense of fellowship, and makes it easier for people to control their own behavior.
Functions of sects
Sects are often referred to as extremist groups, but many are peaceful and simply differ from a larger denomination on specific issues. These groups can even become mainstream denominations in time.
Theodicy
Theodicy is an attempt to explain the relationship between the goodness of God and the evil that we see in the world. Traditional theodicies deny that God is omnipotent or that he can cause evil. Nevertheless, they do not offer a satisfactory solution to the problem of evil. They also fail to provide a deep understanding of the nature of God.