Sociology: Defining religion

Who put forward the seven 'dimensions of religion'?

• Roy Wallis

• Ninian Smart

• Paul Heelas

• Steve Bruce

Which are examples of a 'church' according to Troeltsch and other sociologists? (2)

• The Church of Scientology

• The Roman Catholic Church

• The Church of England

• The Church of the Latter Day Saints

Which are examples of Sects? (2)

• The Amish

• The Satanic Temple

• Wicca

• The Bruderhof

Which is NOT a characteristic of the New Age Movement?

• Personalised spirituality

• Charismatic leadership

• Informal structure

• Focus on nature and ecology

Who suggested that people are drawn to religious fundamentalism due to marginalisation and feelings of relative deprivation?

• Steve Bruce

• Grace Davie

• Paul Heelas

• Talcott Parsons

How might the New Age Movement and Religious Fundamentalism have commonalities? (2)

• May both interpret religious texts literally

• May both involve holistic spiritual practices

• May both provide a source of identity

• May both utilise the digital world

Which is NOT one of Smart's seven dimensions of religion?

• Experiential dimension

• Material dimension

• Ethical dimension

• Indoctrination dimension

Which are problems with Functional definitions of religion? (2)

• Too inclusive - could apply to anything

• Based upon assumptions about the role of religion

• Too exclusive - might overlook some religions

• Only relevant to religions which worship God

Which are characteristics of a denomination NOT shared with a sect? (2)

• Accepts society's norms and values

• Does not seek to be universal

• Does not claim to be the sole possessor of truth

• Less connected to the state than a church

Who originally used the term cult to refer to groups with less formalised membership and less challenging teachings?

• Howard Becker

• L. Ron Hubbard

• Steve Bruce

• Joseph Smith