RELG 101 Chapter Notes - Chapter 2: Sui Generis
Document Summary
Chapter 2 : theory in the field: an introduction. Religion is a phenomenon that is central in many people"s lives. People"s views, actions, and decisions are based on the religion that they follow. Theory is a pathway towards examination and it is built on evidence, demonstration and arguments. Theories contribute to definition, description, explanation, and prediction. A theory is a way of seeing something in order to understand it. It is based on significant experience and evidence. Definition: religion is belief in god or gods that are to be obeyed and worshiped. Explanation human desire to know why things are the way they are. Explanatory theories account for the historical background and origins of religion. Predictions the study of religion makes as aware of what will likely happen in any given situation. Insider/outsider: orders of meaning in the study of religion. Only way of understanding the insider is to become one.
