Student Solution

-->

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world”
– Nelson Mandela

1 University

1 Course

1 Subject

Week 2 Study

Week 2 Study

Q 1. How is the word "theory" generally understood? What is the difference between theories of the natural world and "theoretical ideas" in the academic study of religion? 2. According to Herling, is it possible for someone to be "religious" if he or she doesn't believe in God/gods? Why or why not? 3. According to Herling, what is the difference between substantive and functionalist definitions? Which seems more appropriate for the study of religion, and why? 4. According to Herling, what is the relationship between definition and description in the study of religion? 5. Drawing on Herling, what's an example of a definition of religion that runs the risk of reductionism? Why? What, if anything, is wrong with reductionism? 6. In reference to Herling, does religion make it particularly difficult to understand the perspective of the insider? Who understands religion better: the insider or the outsider? 7. According to Herling, what, in general, is the relationship between theology and religious studies? Should theology be excluded from the academic study of religion? Why or why not? 8. According to Martin, what is the basic idea behind social constructionism? Why does Martin say that if we use different concepts, we get different results? 9. Discuss Martin’s seven key principles of social constructionism. In detail, discuss what they are, using examples throughout. (Note: this question will likely require a longer answer.) 10. How does essentialism work, according to Martin? What are the problems with essentialism? PreviousNext

View Related Questions

Solution Preview

Theory is generally understood as a pathway towards unveiling a preposition that its meaning is not immediately apparent. Theory relies on evidence and argument in order to establish a meaning in the field. Theoretical idea, on the other hand, is considered an unproven speculation. While theory helps to explain an argument or position an idea, theoretical ideas are in raw form and could be disproven with the minimal evidence and argument.It is possible to be religious without believing in in God/gods. Herling stated that religion or being religious is about making connections between people. Religion is rooted in “common creeds and practices” (Herling, 2015, p.34). Hence, it is possible that the commonality among a group of people or in a community has nothing to do with God/gods.