Due Thursday, September 17th:

After reading pages 22 - 29 do the following in your own words:

1) Describe the reasons why people follow (or flock) to religion



People flock to a religion because they feel the need to make sense of their messed up world. It gives them a sense of hope. They can deal with their problems by using answers religion provides. It provides answers to the unanswerable questions which gives people peace. Religion also answers the question of why we have suffering. People believe religions make them happy and healthy.


2) Compare and contrast the following:

Religion and Philosophy

• Religion-rituals and traditions, uses revelation to answer questions, uses belief

-believes in miracles

Similarities: both have ethics, explain what is good, believe in a religious historical figure (one through scientific findings, one through testaments)

• Philosophy- shows what is good, how we should act, uses reason to answer what is true

-accept miracles, not necessarily believe that they happen

Compare Spirituality and Religion:

• Spirituality: does not require membership, no authority structure, willingness to follow what one wants in terms of traditions and beliefs, can even combine religious beliefs, don't need clear ideas

Similarities: help people live in a harsh world

• Religion: clear ideas, requires membership, there is an authority structure (priest, pastor etc.), typically religions tell one what to believe and which traditions to follow. Can not combine religious beliefs within one religion, need clear answers and ideas