Question

1. List some ways that you see religion having social control in the everyday world. 2. What are some sacred items that you're familiar with? Are there some objects, such as cups, candles, or clothing, that would be considered profane in normal settings but are considered sacred in special circumstances or when used in specific ways? 3 . Consider a religion that you are familiar with, and discuss some of its beliefs, behaviors, and norms. Discuss how these meet social needs. Then, research a religion that you don't know much about. Explain how its beliefs, behaviors, and norms are like/unlike the other religion 4. Do you believe the United States is becoming more secularized or more fundamentalist? Comparing your generation to that of your parents or grandparents, what differences do you see in the relationship between religion and society? What would popular media have you believe is the state of religion in the United States today? 5. In U.S. society, do you believe there is social stratification that correlates with religious beliefs? What about within the practitioners of a given religion? Provide examples to illustrate your point 6. Consider the different types of religious organizations in the United States. What role did ecclesia play in the history of the United States? How have sects tended to change over time? What role do cults have today? 7. What is your understanding of monotheism versus polytheism? How might your ideology be an obstacle to understanding the theism of another religion you're unfamiliar with?

Answer 1

• 1.Control of social behavior is the whole point of religion. In its most beneficial form, religion fosters harmonious relationships between people and inspires people to consideration and charity for others. In its most destructive manifestation, religion inspires fanatics to commit horrendous atrocities against people they think of as apostates.
• Though most of the world’s governments have now discarded religion as legal grounds for authority, for many individuals it continues to serve as the basis of personal morality and ethics. This can also be viewed as an example of social control exerted by the worlds major religions. In Christianity, the Ten Commandments and the teachings contained within the New Testament can be viewed as attempts to control through fear of divine retribution.
• In Islam, the Quran provides core ideals and rules almost every aspect of both daily living, and how an individual should behave. Religion through the ages has provided the power for organized groups to influence both individuals as well as society, and though dogma and indoctrination create an undeniable force that can be wielded to control the populous.
• Religion influences the daily lives of eevryone around the world,in terms of,people who are highly religious are more engaged with their extended families, more likely to volunteer, more involved in their communities and generally happier with the way things are going in their lives.
• Religion in our everyday lives also keeps our behaviour in check.We develop a personal moral policing on our behaviour as a responsible citizen and human being in our society.Religion is a discipline,following it guides us and motivates us to be righteous,show kindness towards others and not lie in our life.
• Religious traditions also persist even when controlling for other factors, including age, income, education, geographic region of residence, marital status and parental status.
• Following your specific religion,makes you behave in adherence to social norms,i.e.not indulging into violence,not breaking any rules,not lying at your workplace or with your family,following your traditions etc.It provides a way of living and sanity in our daily lives,if we follow the values of our religion.
• Joining religious organizations,gets people together and enhances social solidarity,making people adopt the right path to live a good,happy and healthy life.It makes a better human being and a contributing citizen towards the betterment of our society by indulging in charities and volunteering for social work.
• Due to time limit,remaining questions can be asked as another question,they will be answered,thankyou for your cooperation