Religions

“A religion can be rigorously defined as a structured system of beliefs, practices, and symbols designed to facilitate closeness to the transcendent or divine, address the nature of existence, and organize communal life according to perceived sacred principles.”
“Religions often provide emotional fulfillment by addressing existential questions such as the meaning of life, suffering, and what happens after death. This aspect frequently involves faith in supernatural claims and entities without empirical substantiation.”
“Religions vary widely in their epistemological frameworks. Some may reject empirical evidence outright in favor of revelation or scriptural authority, while others might incorporate empirical findings to varying degrees.”
“Most religions feature an eschatology that includes final judgments and afterlife concepts rewarding adherents based on their fidelity and moral conduct according to religious tenets.”
“Many religions involve worship of one or more deities and frequently include doctrines regarding the exclusivity of truth claims and the condemnation or pitying of non-believers. This aspect can reinforce in-group solidarity and is often pivotal in discussions about interfaith relations and religious tolerance.”

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Provide a full and rigorous definition of a religion.

Address the following in your definition:

Degree of focus on group identity and community.
Focus on emotional fulfillment based on unsubstantiated claims.
Epistemological commitments such as standards of evidence, commitment to science, and the rational mapping of the degree of belief to the degree of the evidence.
Ontological complexity and the testability of posited realms and entities.
Ability to evolve and adapt within various cultures.
The existence of an eschatology rewarding the believer.
Proximity to a deity and the condemnation of non-believers.

A religion can be rigorously defined as a structured system of beliefs, practices, and symbols designed to facilitate closeness to the transcendent or divine, address the nature of existence, and organize communal life according to perceived sacred principles. This definition encompasses several dimensions:

Group Identity and Community Focus: Religions typically promote a strong sense of group identity and are centered around community participation and support. They bind individuals through shared rituals, ethical codes, and a collective narrative that may be situated within a cosmological context. Communities are not just social but are considered meaningful within the religious ontology, often believed to be under divine surveillance or influence.
Emotional Fulfillment and Unsubstantiated Claims: Religions often provide emotional fulfillment by addressing existential questions such as the meaning of life, suffering, and what happens after death. This aspect frequently involves faith in supernatural claims and entities without empirical substantiation. Emotional responses are evoked through narratives, rituals, and the promise of ultimate justice or salvation, which are accepted on faith rather than empirical evidence.
Epistemological Commitments: Religions vary widely in their epistemological frameworks. Some may reject empirical evidence outright in favor of revelation or scriptural authority, while others might incorporate empirical findings to varying degrees. However, religious epistemologies generally involve a leap of faith, where beliefs are not necessarily proportionate to empirical evidence but are often grounded in religious experiences or the authority of sacred texts and traditions.
Ontological Complexity and Testability: Religions typically posit the existence of various unseen realms and entities (such as heavens, hells, gods, and spirits). These components are usually ontologically complex and not subject to empirical testing, making them metaphysical in nature. The complexity of these ontological claims varies among different religions and can influence the structure and the theology of the religious system.
Adaptability and Cultural Evolution: Religions demonstrate a remarkable ability to evolve and adapt to diverse cultural contexts. This adaptability can be seen in the incorporation of local customs, the reinterpretation of doctrines, and the flexible application of practices as religions spread across different geographic and social landscapes. This evolution often helps religions to remain relevant and resilient despite changes in human knowledge and society.
Eschatology and Reward: Most religions feature an eschatology that includes final judgments and afterlife concepts rewarding adherents based on their fidelity and moral conduct according to religious tenets. This component not only provides a moral framework but also serves to reinforce group norms and individual compliance with the promise of divine justice or existential resolution.
Deity and Condemnation of Non-Believers: Many religions involve worship of one or more deities and frequently include doctrines regarding the exclusivity of truth claims and the condemnation or pitying of non-believers. This aspect can reinforce in-group solidarity and is often pivotal in discussions about interfaith relations and religious tolerance.

Religions, thus, are multifaceted and dynamic systems that deeply influence personal identities, cultural norms, and social orders. They balance the tension between unverifiable personal beliefs and communal empirical realities, providing frameworks for meaning and ethical living while adapting to new cultural environments and knowledge paradigms.

Religion is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects, including group identity, emotional fulfillment, epistemological commitments, ontological complexity, cultural adaptability, eschatology, and the relationship with deities. Here’s a comprehensive definition addressing the points you raised:

A religion tends to be a system of beliefs, practices, and rituals that typically:

1. Fosters a strong sense of group identity and community among its adherents, often through shared traditions, sacred texts, and communal worship.

2. Offers emotional fulfillment and meaning through unsubstantiated claims or beliefs that cannot be empirically verified, such as the existence of supernatural entities or realms.

3. Has varying epistemological commitments, ranging from a strict adherence to scientific reasoning and evidence to a reliance on faith, revelation, or spiritual experiences as sources of knowledge. The degree of belief is not always proportional to the degree of empirical evidence available.

4. Posits ontological realms or entities that may be complex and not easily testable or falsifiable, such as the existence of deities, supernatural forces, or an afterlife.

5. Demonstrates an ability to evolve and adapt within different cultural contexts, often incorporating local traditions, beliefs, and practices while retaining core tenets.

6. Frequently includes an eschatological narrative or belief system that describes the ultimate destiny or end-state of the universe, often involving a reward or punishment for the believer based on their adherence to the religion’s teachings.

7. Establishes a perceived proximity or relationship with a deity or deities, which can involve the worship, reverence, or veneration of these entities, as well as the potential condemnation or judgment of non-believers or those who deviate from the religion’s teachings.

It’s important to note that religions can vary significantly in their specific beliefs, practices, and emphasis on these different aspects. Additionally, the boundaries between what constitutes a religion and other belief systems or philosophies can be blurred or subject to debate.

Provide a comprehensive list of religions’ goods and ills.

Religions have profoundly influenced both individuals and societies throughout history, providing a rich array of benefits and posing significant challenges. Here’s a comprehensive exploration of the goods (benefits) and ills (drawbacks) associated with religions:

Goods of Religion

Moral Foundations:
- Religions often provide strong ethical guidelines that encourage virtues such as compassion, altruism, and justice. These moral frameworks can foster community cohesion and personal integrity.
Community and Social Support:
- Religious communities offer a sense of belonging, mutual support, and a shared identity, which can be particularly comforting during times of crisis or isolation.
Psychological and Emotional Well-being:
- Many people find comfort, purpose, and inspiration in their religious beliefs. Religion can help individuals cope with life’s challenges, reducing stress and promoting a positive mental outlook.
Cultural and Artistic Contributions:
- Religions have inspired monumental achievements in architecture, music, literature, and art. The world’s cultural heritage is richly studded with religious influences from Gothic cathedrals to Islamic calligraphy.
Promotion of Education and Learning:
- Historically, many religious organizations have promoted literacy and learning. Monasteries in medieval Europe preserved scholarly works and were centers of education, while religious institutions today often provide educational opportunities in underserved areas.
Social Services and Charity:
- Religious groups are prominent providers of charity, disaster relief, healthcare, and humanitarian aid around the world. These services benefit society, especially in areas lacking government support.
Structure and Order:
- Religion can offer structure in life through regular rituals and rites of passage. This structure can help individuals and communities make sense of life’s transitions and provide a stable routine.
Promotion of Peace and Nonviolence:
- Many religions advocate for peace and nonviolence. Doctrines of forgiveness and reconciliation can promote societal harmony and conflict resolution.

Ills of Religion

Intolerance and Conflict:
- Religious conflicts have been and continue to be a source of extensive violence and warfare. Intolerance towards non-believers or adherents of other religions can exacerbate social divisions.
Impediment to Scientific Progress:
- Some religious beliefs can conflict with scientific findings and methodologies, potentially hindering scientific progress and rational thinking. Examples include opposition to evolutionary biology and the stem cell research.
Social Control and Abuse:
- Religions can be used as tools for social control, imposing strict and sometimes harmful norms under the threat of divine retribution or social ostracism. Cases of abuse, both physical and emotional, have been perpetuated under the guise of religious authority.
Gender and Sexual Discrimination:
- Many religions promote specific roles for men and women, often leading to gender discrimination. Views on sexuality can result in prejudices and biases against LGBTQ+ communities.
Economic Exploitation:
- Some religious institutions have been criticized for financial opacity and exploitation, including the accumulation of vast wealth while their followers remain impoverished.
Resistance to Modernity and Change:
- Religions can be resistant to change, holding onto outdated customs and laws that are at odds with contemporary values and human rights.
Mental Health Issues:
- Certain aspects of religious doctrine, such as guilt and fear of punishment, can contribute to mental health issues. Exclusivist beliefs may also isolate individuals from broader society.
Undermining Individual Autonomy:
- Heavy emphasis on doctrinal conformity can undermine personal autonomy and discourage critical thinking. This can lead to a population less capable of making informed decisions outside religious contexts.

Conclusion

Religions continue to play a complex role in modern societies, offering substantial benefits while also posing significant challenges. The impact of any given religion varies widely depending on its doctrines, the behavior of its leaders and followers, and the cultural context in which it is practiced. As societies evolve, the continuing challenge is to maximize the benefits of religious contributions while mitigating their potential harms.

Religions can have both positive and negative aspects, which can manifest in various ways. Here’s a comprehensive list of some potential goods and ills associated with religions:

Potential Goods:

1. Sense of community and belonging: Religions often provide a supportive community and a shared identity, fostering social cohesion and a sense of belonging.

2. Moral and ethical guidance: Many religions offer moral and ethical frameworks that can promote virtues such as compassion, honesty, and respect for others.

3. Meaning and purpose: Religions can provide a sense of meaning, purpose, and existential comfort, particularly in the face of life’s challenges and the inevitability of death.

4. Spiritual and emotional fulfillment: Religious beliefs and practices can offer spiritual and emotional fulfillment, inner peace, and a sense of transcendence.

5. Charitable and humanitarian efforts: Many religious organizations and individuals engage in charitable work, humanitarian aid, and community service.

6. Preservation of cultural heritage and traditions: Religions often play a role in preserving cultural heritage, traditions, and values across generations.

7. Promotion of virtues: Religions can encourage virtues such as forgiveness, humility, and selflessness, which can contribute to personal growth and societal harmony.

Potential Ills:

1. Intolerance and discrimination: Some religious beliefs and practices can lead to intolerance, discrimination, and prejudice against those who hold different beliefs or identities.

2. Violence and extremism: Extremist interpretations of religious teachings have been used to justify violence, terrorism, and human rights abuses throughout history.

3. Oppression and subjugation: Certain religious doctrines or practices can contribute to the oppression and subjugation of specific groups, such as women, minorities, or non-believers.

4. Conflict and division: Religious differences and competing claims to truth can lead to conflicts, wars, and divisions within and between societies.

5. Resistance to scientific progress: Some religious beliefs or interpretations can conflict with scientific discoveries and hinder the advancement of knowledge and progress.

6. Exploitation and abuse: Religious authority figures or institutions have been implicated in cases of exploitation, abuse, and corruption, particularly involving vulnerable individuals.

7. Promotion of harmful practices: Certain religious practices, such as genital mutilation, child marriage, or extreme asceticism, can be harmful to individuals or communities.

8. Suppression of critical thinking: Some religious teachings may discourage critical thinking, questioning, or dissent, potentially leading to intellectual stagnation or indoctrination.

It’s important to note that these potential goods and ills are not universal or inherent to all religions. The manifestation and extent of these aspects can vary widely depending on the specific religion, interpretation, and cultural context.

Some would argue that the greatest harm of religion is its conscious promotion of a degree of belief that exceeds the degree of the relevant evidence which has led to a regrettable delay in humanity’s maturity. Weigh in on this.

The criticism that religion consciously promotes a degree of belief that exceeds the degree of the relevant evidence—and thus delays humanity’s maturity—is a profound and multifaceted argument. It touches upon epistemological concerns about how we know what we know and the implications this has for societal progress and individual intellectual development. Here are some perspectives to consider when weighing in on this argument:

Epistemological Concerns

Faith vs. Empirical Evidence:

Religion: Religions often require faith, a belief in doctrines, narratives, and divine entities that do not require empirical evidence for validation. Faith is considered a virtue, and religious truths are often viewed as transcendent, accessible through revelation, spiritual insight, or scriptural authority rather than empirical investigation.
Secular Humanism/Science: In contrast, secular humanism and scientific methodologies prioritize beliefs grounded in empirical evidence. Knowledge is provisional and subject to revision based on new evidence, which contrasts with religious knowledge that might be seen as absolute and unchanging.

Certainty and Doubt:

Religions may provide psychological comfort through certainty about existential questions for which definitive evidence cannot be obtained, such as the afterlife or the existence of a deity. This certainty can be appealing, as it provides definitive answers where science often offers ambiguity.
However, this certainty can discourage skepticism and critical thinking, which are crucial for intellectual development and societal progress.

Societal and Cognitive Impacts

Inhibition of Intellectual Development:

By promoting certainty in the absence of evidence, religion can potentially discourage inquiry and the questioning mindset that drives scientific and philosophical advancements.
Societies or individuals deeply embedded in religious thought might prioritize scriptural interpretations over scientific explanations, which can stifle innovation and acceptance of new ideas.

Moral and Ethical Growth:

Religion has historically played a role in moral education where literacy and ethical discourse were otherwise inaccessible. However, when religious morals are accepted without scrutiny, there can be a delay in ethical evolution, such as with views on slavery, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights.

Societal Progress:

Religious institutions have been pivotal in social cohesion and governance, providing order and stability. Yet, this can also cement authoritarian structures and resist democratic and progressive reforms, potentially delaying societal maturity in terms of human rights and scientific literacy.

Fragmentation vs. Unity:

While religion can unify large groups and foster community, it can also lead to division and conflict, particularly with exclusive truth claims that condemn or marginalize non-believers or adherents of other faiths.

Weighing Both Sides

The argument that religion retards humanity’s maturity by promoting unwarranted certainty has merit, particularly when examining historical and contemporary conflicts driven by religious extremism or the suppression of science and rationalism. However, it’s also essential to recognize that:

Religion Adapts: Religions have continually adapted to new knowledge and cultural shifts. For instance, many religious groups now embrace scientific findings and work to reinterpret doctrines in light of them.
Coexistence of Multiple Cognitive Tools: Faith and reason may be seen as complementary rather than antagonistic. Many thinkers propose a model where religious faith addresses existential and moral questions, while empirical science tackles the how and what of natural phenomena.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the role of religion in promoting beliefs without empirical evidence can be seen as a double-edged sword—it has provided structure, community, and meaning for millions, yet has also, at times, hindered intellectual, moral, and societal progress. The challenge lies in fostering a societal framework where religious belief does not stifle inquiry and where both religious and secular perspectives can contribute to a mature, pluralistic, and informed society.

The argument that religion’s promotion of beliefs that exceed the degree of available evidence has hindered humanity’s maturity and progress is a valid and thought-provoking critique. There are several points to consider:

Epistemological concerns: Many religions encourage a reliance on faith, revelation, or spiritual experiences as sources of truth, rather than adhering strictly to empirical evidence and scientific reasoning. This epistemological commitment can lead to the acceptance of unsubstantiated claims or beliefs, potentially hindering rational inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge.
Resistance to scientific advancements: Throughout history, there have been instances where religious authorities or doctrines have resisted or opposed scientific discoveries and advancements that challenged traditional beliefs. This resistance can delay the acceptance and integration of new knowledge, potentially slowing down humanity’s intellectual and technological progress.
Indoctrination and discouragement of critical thinking: Some religious teachings or practices may discourage critical thinking, questioning, or dissent, potentially leading to intellectual stagnation or indoctrination. This can hinder the development of independent thought and the ability to critically evaluate beliefs and evidence.
Perpetuation of harmful practices or beliefs: Certain religious beliefs or practices, such as those that promote discrimination, oppression, or harmful practices, can impede social progress and the realization of human rights and equality.

However, it is important to recognize that religion’s impact on human progress and maturity is complex and multifaceted. There are also examples of religions contributing to scientific advancements, promoting ethical values, and fostering intellectual discourse throughout history.

Additionally, the degree to which a religion promotes beliefs that exceed evidence can vary significantly between different religions, denominations, and individual interpretations. Some religious traditions have actively embraced scientific discoveries and encouraged the pursuit of knowledge, while others have been more resistant to challenges to their traditional beliefs.

Ultimately, the extent to which religion has hindered or promoted human progress and maturity is a subject of ongoing debate and analysis. It is essential to consider the nuances and complexities of different religious traditions, their historical contexts, and their interactions with scientific and intellectual developments. Fostering open dialogue, critical thinking, and a commitment to evidence-based reasoning can help navigate the potential tensions between religious beliefs and the pursuit of knowledge and progress.

Create a 10-item quiz on the entire thread above.

Quiz: Understanding Religion – Definitions, Impacts, and Epistemological Concerns

What is one of the primary functions of religion in terms of community and social structures?
- A) To promote individualism
- B) To provide a sense of belonging and shared identity
- C) To encourage economic competition
- D) To reduce cultural diversity
Religions often provide emotional fulfillment through:
- A) Empirical and scientific validation
- B) Philosophical debates
- C) Unsubstantiated supernatural claims
- D) Political structures
Which of the following is NOT typically an attribute of religious epistemology?
- A) Emphasis on personal revelation over empirical evidence
- B) Beliefs proportionate to empirical evidence
- C) Faith in doctrinal authority
- D) Acceptance of beliefs grounded in religious experiences
Ontological claims made by religions are characterized by their:
- A) Simplicity and empirical testability
- B) Complexity and metaphysical nature
- C) Alignment with scientific laws
- D) Conformity to rational inquiry
How do religions adapt when spreading across different cultures?
- A) By rigidly adhering to their original practices
- B) By incorporating local customs and reinterpretations of doctrines
- C) By promoting universal sameness in religious practice
- D) By diminishing their foundational beliefs
What role does eschatology play in religion?
- A) It fosters technological innovation
- B) It offers a narrative on the afterlife and divine justice
- C) It minimizes the importance of moral behavior
- D) It discourages community bonding
Religious teachings about deities often include:
- A) Indifference towards non-believers
- B) Encouragement of empirical scrutiny of deities
- C) Condemnation or exclusion of non-believers
- D) Promotion of atheistic values
Which is a noted ill effect of religion due to its influence on belief and evidence?
- A) Enhanced critical thinking skills
- B) Delay in humanity’s intellectual and moral maturity
- C) Rapid technological advancements
- D) Increased empirical scientific research
A significant cultural contribution of religion is:
- A) Decreased artistic expression
- B) Inspiration of monumental achievements in arts and architecture
- C) Suppression of musical development
- D) Stagnation of literary creativity
What is a common critique regarding religion and scientific progress?
- A) Religion often supports and accelerates scientific findings
- B) Religious beliefs sometimes align perfectly with scientific theories
- C) Religion may hinder scientific progress by opposing empirical findings
- D) Religion consistently funds scientific research

Answers:

B) To provide a sense of belonging and shared identity
C) Unsubstantiated supernatural claims
B) Beliefs proportionate to empirical evidence
B) Complexity and metaphysical nature
B) By incorporating local customs and reinterpretations of doctrines
B) It offers a narrative on the afterlife and divine justice
C) Condemnation or exclusion of non-believers
B) Delay in humanity’s intellectual and moral maturity
B) Inspiration of monumental achievements in arts and architecture
C) Religion may hinder scientific progress by opposing empirical findings

1. Which of the following is not typically a key aspect of religion according to the definition provided?
a) Fostering group identity and community
b) Offering emotional fulfillment through unsubstantiated claims
c) Strict adherence to scientific reasoning and evidence
d) Positing complex ontological realms or entities

2. According to the list of potential goods of religion, which of the following is not included?
a) Promotion of critical thinking
b) Moral and ethical guidance
c) Preservation of cultural heritage and traditions
d) Spiritual and emotional fulfillment

3. Which potential ill of religion is associated with the suppression of intellectual growth?
a) Resistance to scientific progress
b) Violence and extremism
c) Charitable and humanitarian efforts
d) Promotion of virtues

4. The definition provided suggests that religions can vary in their:
a) Epistemological commitments
b) Ontological complexity
c) Ability to evolve and adapt within cultures
d) All of the above

5. Which of the following is not included in the list of potential ills of religion?
a) Exploitation and abuse
b) Promotion of harmful practices
c) Encouragement of critical thinking
d) Intolerance and discrimination

6. According to the critique discussed, which aspect of religion is argued to have hindered humanity’s maturity?
a) Resistance to scientific advancements
b) Promotion of community and belonging
c) Preservation of cultural heritage and traditions
d) Encouragement of charitable efforts

7. The definition suggests that religions often include beliefs or narratives about:
a) The ultimate destiny or end-state of the universe
b) The promotion of scientific progress
c) The condemnation of all other belief systems
d) The strict adherence to empirical evidence

8. Which potential good of religion is related to providing a sense of purpose or meaning?
a) Moral and ethical guidance
b) Spiritual and emotional fulfillment
c) Meaning and purpose
d) Promotion of virtues

9. According to the response, the impact of religion on human progress and maturity is:
a) Universally positive
b) Universally negative
c) Complex and multifaceted
d) Irrelevant to human development

10. Which aspect of religion is criticized for potentially leading to intellectual stagnation or indoctrination?
a) Oppression and subjugation
b) Promotion of harmful practices
c) Indoctrination and discouragement of critical thinking
d) Resistance to scientific progress

Answers:
1. c
2. a
3. a
4. d
5. c
6. a
7. a
8. c
9. c
10. c

Provide 15 discussion questions relevant to the content above.

To what extent should religious beliefs be allowed to influence public education and scientific research? Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks.
How do religions adapt their practices and doctrines when they encounter new cultural or scientific understandings? Provide examples of such adaptations.
Discuss the role of faith in religion versus empirical evidence in science. Can these two epistemological bases coexist without conflict, or are they inherently contradictory?
Evaluate the impact of religious moral teachings on societal values and laws. How have these influences shaped modern ethical standards?
Consider the psychological and emotional benefits provided by religious beliefs. Are these benefits sustainable solely within a religious framework, or can secular ideologies provide similar support?
Analyze the role of religion in fostering community and social support networks. What unique aspects does religion bring to these networks that secular organizations might not?
Discuss the concept of religious tolerance. How can societies balance respect for religious diversity with the need to protect against the negative impacts of extreme religious ideologies?
How does the ontological complexity of religious claims (such as the existence of various spiritual realms and beings) affect philosophical and theological discourse within religions?
Religion often provides a narrative structure for understanding life and existence. How does this structure influence individual and collective decision-making processes?
Critically examine the notion that religion delays humanity’s maturity by promoting beliefs without empirical evidence. Is this a fair assessment across all religions and contexts?
Discuss the role of eschatology in shaping believers’ behaviors and attitudes towards life. How do these beliefs impact societal norms and individual ethics?
Evaluate the argument that religions, by promoting a community and a collective narrative, might inhibit personal autonomy and critical thinking. How valid is this concern?
Religious art and architecture often carry deep symbolic meanings. Discuss how these artistic expressions contribute to and reflect the underlying religious and cultural values.
Analyze the ethical and social consequences of religious teachings that condemn non-believers or people of other faiths. How do these teachings affect interfaith relations and societal harmony?
Discuss the historical role of religion in charity and social services. What are the contemporary challenges faced by religious organizations in this domain, and how are they adapting?

These questions aim to provoke thoughtful discussion on the multifaceted role of religion in individual lives and societal structures, considering both its beneficial contributions and its complex challenges.

Here are 15 discussion questions relevant to the content on the definition, goods, and ills of religion:

1. What criteria should be used to determine if a belief system qualifies as a religion?

2. How important is the concept of community and group identity in defining a religion?

3. To what extent should religious beliefs be expected to align with empirical evidence and scientific reasoning?

4. Can a religion be considered valid or legitimate if its core beliefs are unsubstantiated or unfalsifiable?

5. How can religions strike a balance between preserving traditions and adapting to changing cultural contexts?

6. What role, if any, should eschatological beliefs or narratives play in a religion?

7. Is the condemnation of non-believers an essential or problematic aspect of religious teachings?

8. How can religions effectively promote moral and ethical guidance without fostering intolerance or discrimination?

9. What measures can be taken to prevent the exploitation or abuse of power within religious institutions?

10. How can religious beliefs and practices be reconciled with scientific progress and the advancement of knowledge?

11. In what ways can religions positively contribute to charitable and humanitarian efforts?

12. Is it possible for religions to encourage critical thinking and intellectual discourse while still maintaining core beliefs?

13. How can the potential for religious beliefs to promote harmful practices or oppression be addressed or mitigated?

14. Can the positive aspects of religion, such as providing meaning and emotional fulfillment, be achieved through non-religious means?

15. How can dialogue and understanding be fostered between different religious traditions and between religious and non-religious perspectives?

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Religions

Provide a full and rigorous definition of a religion.