Religious beliefs and rituals are __________ representations, group-held meanings that express something important about the group itself.

Question

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Religious beliefs and rituals are collective representations, as they are shared by a group or community. They express the shared meanings and values of the group, and are often an important part of its identity and cohesion. They may vary across cultures and societies, but they are always collective in nature. Core beliefs may also be a part of religious systems, but they are not necessarily collective or shared by a group. Universal beliefs may exist across different cultures, but they are not necessarily tied to religious rituals or practices. Standard beliefs are not a common term used in the study of religion.

Religious Beliefs and Rituals Are __________ Representations, Group-Held Meanings That