Question 1

What is the specialized meaning of "myth" in the study of religion? Name and describe at least two the types of myths. What role does myth play in a religious system? Choose at least one example to illustrate how this works.

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Question 2

Think of the last time you were at a Super Bowl party, a professional baseball game, or some other major sporting event. What features of ritual did you observe at this event? How do they compare with your experience of a religious ritual?

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Question 3

What are three possible ways that one may view the relationship between science and religion? Explain each position, comparing it with the other two. Which do you think is the best understanding? Why so?

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Question 4

Compare and contrast the key features of a descriptive approach to study of religion versus an evaluative approach. In what contexts or for what purposes would each of these two approaches be most suitable?

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Question 5

What is one contemporary example of what this text calls the "moral imperative" for the study of religion? Why do you think this example fits the category?

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Question 6

Evaluate the pros and cons of stipulating a working definition of "religion" when beginning the academic study of religion.

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Question 7

Define the term "ritual" and describe the key features of religious ritual. What role does ritual play in a religious system? Choose at least one example to illustrate how this works.

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Question 8

Which of the terms best fits each of the descriptions of different approaches to the study of religion?
-Describing how a religion has come into existence and developed through time

Accepted Answer

The approach of describing how a religion has come into existence and developed through time is known as historical, as it involves analyzing the historical context and evolution of a religion.

The other options are:
A) Comparative - involves comparing different religions to identify similarities and differences.
B) Functional - focuses on the functions and roles that religion plays in society.
D) Phenomenological - involves studying the subjective experiences and perspectives of individuals within a religion.
E) Philosophical - involves analyzing the concepts and beliefs within a religion from a philosophical perspective.

Question 9

What are the basic characteristics of a phenomenological approach to the study of religion? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this method versus the other approaches mentioned in this text (religious, philosophical, functional, historical, and comparative)?

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Question 10

Which of the terms best fits each of the descriptions of different approaches to the study of religion?
-Examining the role(s) religion plays in particular human contexts

Accepted Answer

The approach of examining the role(s) religion plays in particular human contexts is the functional approach.

Answer: A, D 
 The comparative approach involves comparing different religions and the phenomenological approach involves studying the lived experiences and practices of religious individuals. Both of these approaches are appropriate for studying religion, but neither directly relates to examining the role(s) religion plays in particular human contexts as the functional approach does.

Answer: C, E 
 The historical approach focuses on the historical development and evolution of religions, while the philosophical approach involves analyzing religious beliefs and concepts. Neither of these approaches directly relates to examining the role(s) religion plays in particular human contexts as the functional approach does.

Question 11

Define the term "ultimacy" as used in this book. How does it compare with your understanding of the term "god"? What are the benefits and drawbacks of each term when talking about the focus of religion?

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Question 12

Which of the terms best fits each of the descriptions of different approaches to the study of religion?
-Attempting to understand the religion from the perspective of people within the religion

Accepted Answer

The phenomenological approach seeks to understand religion from the perspective of people within the religion, focusing on the experiences and practices of the believers.

Question 13

On the basis of the four criteria of clarity, inclusivity, specificity, and utility, evaluate the adequacy of each of the following definitions of religion for an academic study of the subject.
a. Religion is something one believes in or follows devotedly.
b. Religion is faith in Jesus Christ.
c. Religion is human transformation in response to perceived ultimacy.

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Quiz 1: An Introduction to Religion and the Study of Religion