Beliefs-Religion In Contemporary World Flashcards
(124 cards)
1
Q
What does ‘secular’ mean?
A
Not religious
2
Q
What is secularisation?
A
The process of religion having less influence on people’s lives
3
Q
Why is measuring secularisation in Britain and globally not straightforward?
A
There are problems measuring people’s religious beliefs and participation
4
Q
What has changed regarding the meaning of church attendance?
A
Church attendance used to be a social expectation, not necessarily a sign of belief
5
Q
What social classes were particularly expected to attend church in the past?
A
Middle and upper classes
6
Q
What does higher church attendance in the past indicate about religious belief?
A
It does not necessarily mean people were more religious
7
Q
What is a major issue with the validity of surveys about religious beliefs?
A
Surveys may not offer a true picture of people’s religious beliefs
8
Q
What example illustrates the lack of seriousness in survey responses?
A
0.7% of respondents in the 2001 Census identified as Jedi Knights
9
Q
What is social desirability in the context of surveys on religious beliefs?
A
Respondents may give answers they think researchers want to hear
10
Q
How do Americans typically respond to questions about their religious beliefs?
A
They often claim to be religious even if they are not
11
Q
What are the three positions in the secularisation debate?
A
- Secularisation is happening - religion is disappearing altogether
- Secularisation never happened - religion is changing form
- Secularisation did happen, but now there is resacrilisation
12
Q
What is secularisation?
A
The process of religion disappearing altogether
Secularisation reflects a broader societal shift away from religious institutions and beliefs.
13
Q
What was the church membership percentage in Britain in 1900?
A
Around 40%
This figure has drastically decreased over time.
14
Q
What is the current church attendance percentage in the UK?
A
Less than 10%
Only 5% of the UK population attends church regularly.
15
Q
What percentage of the population in England attends regular Church of England services?
A
1.4%
This represents the lowest level of attendance ever recorded.
16
Q
What percentage of weddings in Britain now take place in a church?
A
32%
This marks a significant decline in religious ceremonies.
17
Q
What percentage of babies in Britain are now baptised?
A
15%
This indicates a decline in traditional religious practices.
18
Q
What assumption does measuring secularisation using church attendance figures make?
A
There was once a ‘golden age’ of religion
This assumption can lack validity as attendance may have been driven by social expectations.
19
Q
What percentage of people in Northern Ireland attend church?
A
70%
This contrasts sharply with trends in the rest of the UK.
20
Q
What percentage of people in America attend church?
A
40%
This reflects a different religious landscape compared to the UK.
21
Q
What percentage of the UK population identifies as having no religion?
A
52%
This indicates a significant decline in religious belief.
22
Q
Who is associated with the growth of new atheism?
A
Richard Dawkins
Dawkins is a prominent atheist and evolutionary biologist advocating for science over religion.
23
Q
What does Richard Dawkins claim about God?
A
God is a delusion
He argues that religion is not based on evidence.
24
Q
What do new atheists believe regarding knowledge of the world?
A
It must be based on credible evidence
They emphasize empirical science as the only valid source of knowledge.
25
What cultural movement started in London in 2013 that reflects a decline in religious belief?
The Sunday Assembly
## Footnote
It is a non-religious gathering that mimics church services without the religious aspect.
26
What activities are involved in a Sunday Assembly?
* Singing pop songs
* Hearing poetry
* Listening to inspirational speakers
* Having tea and cake
## Footnote
It provides a sense of community without belief in God.
27
True or False: Scientific theories are based on blind faith.
False
## Footnote
Scientific theories rely on established facts and experimental results.
28
What does desacrilisation refer to?
The view that the 'sacred' has little place in modern society because rational, scientific explanations have replaced sacred explanations.
## Footnote
This means people turn to science rather than religion for explanations.
29
What is rationalisation in the context of the pandemic?
A process whereby people seek explanations based on reason and logic instead of supernatural explanations.
## Footnote
For example, looking for scientific reasons behind a car crash rather than attributing it to divine intervention.
30
How does science provide certainty according to the text?
Science offers empirical evidence and certainty, such as the understanding that everything is made of atoms.
## Footnote
Empirical evidence is knowledge gained through the senses.
31
What percentage of UK adults watched or listened to a religious service during lockdown 1?
25%.
## Footnote
This indicates that even during the pandemic, significant numbers turned to religion for comfort.
32
What does disengagement refer to?
The separation of the church and the state.
## Footnote
This highlights the decline of the church's influence in shaping laws and values.
33
What was the historical role of the church in the UK?
The church had a dominant role, shaping laws, values, and behavior, with priests holding considerable power in Parliament.
## Footnote
This has changed significantly in modern society.
34
According to Wilson, what has happened to religious organisations?
They have seen a decline in their power, wealth, influence, and status.
## Footnote
This includes a reduction in the church's political role.
35
How has the role of religion changed according to the evaluation?
Religion is less about influencing the state and more about meeting individual needs like spirituality.
## Footnote
This suggests that disengagement does not necessarily mean people are less religious.
36
What is an example of the church's continued influence in society?
The Catholic Church still influences Catholics on issues such as contraception.
## Footnote
This shows that religious influence persists in certain areas despite overall disengagement.
37
True or False: Disengagement implies that people are becoming less religious.
False.
## Footnote
Disengagement may reflect a shift in the role of religion rather than a decline in religiosity.
38
In what type of cultures does religion remain very important?
Fundamentalist Islamic states, such as Iran.
## Footnote
In these cultures, religion shapes laws, behavior, and values significantly.
39
What is the main argument of postmodernists regarding religion?
Religion is changing form, becoming more individualised and less about traditional meta-narratives.
40
How do individuals practice religion in a postmodern context?
Individuals embark on personal 'spiritual journeys', discovering their own inner spirituality.
41
What does Bunting mean by describing religion as a 'DIY cocktail'?
Individuals take bits and pieces of various religions to create their own belief systems.
42
Give an example of practices people might incorporate into their individualised belief systems.
* Reiki sessions
* Aromatherapy
* Colour therapy
43
What is Bruce's criticism of New Age Movements (NAMs)?
He claims NAMs are merely expensive leisure activities unrelated to true religion or spirituality.
44
What does Davie argue about the relationship between church attendance and religiosity?
Declining attendance does not equate to a decline in religious belief; religion has become more personalised.
45
What does the term 'believing without belonging' refer to?
Individuals identify as religious without attending church services.
46
How have some people adapted their worship during the coronavirus pandemic?
Many have worshipped from home by watching services online through platforms like Zoom and Facebook Live.
47
What statistic did Davie provide about first-time viewers of religious services during the pandemic?
1 in 20 UK adults watching or listening to religious services have never been to church.
48
What does the concept of 'believing without belonging' indicate about modern worship?
Religion is adapting to the needs of modern, chaotic lives.
49
What phenomenon has been noted in the USA regarding 'believing without belonging'?
A growth in televangelism and religious TV channels with high subscription rates.
50
What is an example of a televangelism channel mentioned in the text?
'Sky Angel'
51
Fill in the blank: Many worship from home by watching T.V. programmes like _______.
'Songs of Praise'
52
True or False: High church attendance figures in the past indicate that people were more religious.
False
53
What does Davie mean by 'vicarious religion'?
A concept where a small number of priests practice religion on behalf of the public, who do not attend church regularly
54
In what situations do many people tend to go to church?
In times of crisis or tragedy
55
What example illustrates people turning to church for comfort?
After the Manchester arena attack, many lit candles and said prayers for the victims
56
True or False: Going to church less often means people are less religious.
False
57
What does 'vicarious religion' suggest about people claiming 'no religion' in the UK?
Many still prefer religious explanations for events like accidents and terrorist attacks
58
According to Durkheim, what role does vicarious religion play in society?
It promotes social solidarity by providing comfort and helping people deal with stress in crises
59
What term do postmodernists use to describe how people engage with religion today?
'Spiritual shoppers'
60
What does the 'religious marketplace' refer to?
A wide range of different religious beliefs available for people to choose from
61
Fill in the blank: Today, religion is _______.
syncretic
62
What is the implication of religious pluralism on the credibility of religions?
It leads to competition between religions, undermining their credibility
63
How does reducing religion to a commodity affect individual commitment?
It makes religion less significant and reduces individual commitment due to the abundance of options
64
What recent trend has been observed among young Muslims in England and Wales?
A re-emphasis on religion, particularly Islam, among young Muslims
65
What percentage of Muslims in England and Wales are under the age of 25?
Nearly half
66
How do young Muslims view their religious identity?
As an important part of their ethnic identities and a source of pride
67
What is an example of a positive hybrid identity among young Muslims?
Wearing a headscarf with jeans and trainers
68
What does the growth of Islam in the UK indicate?
A religious revival and that religion is becoming popular again
69
What term describes the process of religion regaining importance in society?
Resacrilisation
70
True or False: Over half of the UK population identifies with a religion.
False
71
What percentage of the UK population has no religion?
52%
72
What does the growth of Islam highlight about the secularisation debate?
The complexities within it, as the white Christian majority are becoming less religious while other groups engage more with religion
73
What does NAMs stand for?
New Age Movements
74
What does the growth and popularity of NAMs suggest?
A spiritual revolution is taking place
75
What types of businesses have grown alongside NAMs?
* Reiki
* Crystal therapy
76
Why have many white British middle-class women turned to NAMs?
To discover their own inner spirituality after leaving the church
77
How do women participate in NAMs differently than traditional religions?
They can take the lead on their own spiritual journey without following a male leader
78
What evidence supports the idea of resacrilisation in relation to NAMs?
The popularity of religion and spirituality is increasing
79
What is Bruce's argument regarding NAMs?
They are not evidence of a spiritual revolution but rather expensive leisure activities
80
Fill in the blank: According to Bruce, yoga is often done to improve _______.
[posture]
81
Fill in the blank: Aromatherapy is primarily a way of _______.
[relaxing]
82
What is religious pluralism?
Religious pluralism refers to the coexistence of multiple religions and beliefs within a society, suggesting a revival of interest in spirituality.
83
How do postmodernists describe the current religious landscape?
Postmodernists describe it as a religious marketplace where individuals are 'spiritual shoppers', selecting beliefs that suit their personal tastes.
84
What does syncretism in religion refer to?
Syncretism refers to the blending of various religious beliefs, where individuals may adopt multiple practices from different religions.
85
What is meant by the term 'resacrilisation'?
Resacrilisation refers to the process where the sacred returns to significance in society, with increased interest in religion and spirituality.
86
What impact does religious pluralism have on the credibility of religions?
It leads to competition between religions, undermining their credibility and reducing individual commitment due to the commodification of religion.
87
Define religious fundamentalism.
Religious fundamentalism is characterized by strong beliefs that claim a monopoly on truth and often support the use of violence for those beliefs.
88
What do fundamentalist groups provide to their followers?
They provide clear rules and moral guidelines, offering direction and certainty in a rapidly changing society.
89
True or False: Fundamentalists reject modernity completely.
False. Fundamentalists often use modern tools like social media to spread their messages despite claiming to oppose modernity.
90
Fill in the blank: Religious pluralism suggests a shift from _______ to multiple beliefs.
[single religion]
91
What is the relationship between religious fundamentalism and postmodern society?
Fundamentalism is seen as a response to the uncertainties and rapid changes in postmodern society.
92
List three examples of beliefs that may be included in a syncretic approach to religion.
* Reiki
* Buddhism
* Crystal therapy
93
What does globalisation refer to?
The increasingly interconnected world, making travel, trade, and communication easier.
94
How has globalisation affected religious beliefs?
It has led to religious pluralism, allowing the spread of diverse religious beliefs and practices.
95
What is the concept of a 'religious marketplace'?
A space where individuals can choose from many different religions to suit their personal tastes and identities.
96
What is meant by being a 'spiritual shopper'?
Individuals select and exchange religions based on personal preferences.
97
How has globalisation contributed to syncretism in religion?
It allows individuals to combine elements from different religions to create their own belief systems.
98
What does the term 'DIY cocktail' refer to in the context of religion?
The practice of individuals taking bits and pieces from various religions to form their own beliefs.
99
What is one evaluation of religious pluralism?
It leads to competition between religions, potentially undermining their credibility.
100
How does reducing religion to a commodity affect individual commitment?
It makes religion less significant and leads to decreased commitment due to the abundance of options.
101
What role does televangelism play in modern religion?
It allows the practice of religion through media, connecting people with a variety of religious ideas.
102
What is an example of a televangelism channel?
'Sky Angel', which offers Evangelical T.V. programmes.
103
What does Davie argue about 'believing without belonging'?
People practice religious beliefs privately rather than attending formal religious services.
104
How has technology influenced religious practices?
It facilitates access to religious beliefs and practices through the internet and social media.
105
What is a potential negative impact of globalisation on religiosity?
It can spread secular ideologies that lead individuals to question their religious faith.
106
Fill in the blank: Globalisation has led to an increase in _______.
[televangelism]
107
True or False: Globalisation has no impact on the way people practice religion.
False
108
What does the rise of technology and ICT facilitate in terms of religion?
It facilitates religious beliefs and practices online.
109
How does science impact people's faith according to the document?
It leads people to question their faith, especially when scientific explanations are provided for natural disasters.
110
What has globalisation led to in terms of religion?
The spread of religions all over the world, including western and modern ways of thinking.
111
What do religious fundamentalist groups see as a threat?
Modernity and westernisation.
112
What factors have contributed to the rise of religious fundamentalism?
Exposure to modern ways due to the internet, cheaper air travel, etc.
113
Name two examples of religious fundamentalist groups.
* Boko Haram
* ISIS
114
What feelings may the spread of new ideas and beliefs generate?
Feelings of uncertainty and possibly a state of anomie.
115
How do postmodernists view fundamentalist groups?
They provide followers with clear direction and rules to deal with uncertainties.
116
What is electronic fundamentalism?
The use of modern products, like the internet and social media, by fundamentalist groups to spread their message.
117
How do fundamentalist groups utilize globalisation?
By using modern tools to spread their message and recruit members.
118
What is cultural transition?
The movement of large numbers of people leading them to turn to religion for support and identity.
119
Why might migrants turn to religion during cultural transition?
To gain support from others and maintain their identity in a new home.
120
What example is given regarding Bangladeshi migrants in the UK?
Many turned to Islam for support and a sense of community.
121
What social benefit did attending the mosque provide for Bangladeshi migrants?
A sense of social solidarity.
122
What does Bruce argue about religion as a form of cultural transition?
It is a temporary role; over time, ethnic minority groups will become secular.
123
True or False: Cultural transition indicates strong religious beliefs.
False
124
Fill in the blank: Ethnic minorities often turn to religion for _______ reasons.
[social]
