Reflecting on Major Approaches to Studying Religions

Touchstone 1: Reflecting on Major Approaches to Studying Religions

In this unit, you learned some of the reasons for studying religion. You also learned that religion is universally recognizable, yet difficult to define. A narrow definition of religion that ties it to a belief in and worship of a higher, supernatural power, can exclude religions like Buddhism. On the other hand, definitions of religion that eliminate mention of the otherworldly or divine by equating it simply with “faith” or “belief” yield an understanding that is overly-broad.

Due to the challenges of studying religion, various methodologies have arisen including: phenomenology, theology, historical approaches, comparison, philosophy, and sociology. This Touchstone gives you an opportunity to reflect on these major approaches to studying religion

In an essay, you will explain the difficulties involved in defining religion. Then you will select one method for studying religion that you believe to be most thought-provoking, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

DIRECTIONS: Explain, in your own words, two reasons why religion is difficult to define. Review the lessons in Unit 1 as you consider your response. Then, select one method for studying religion that you believe to be most thought-provoking and explain what you believe to be its strengths and weaknesses.

Your short essay should include four parts:

• Explain, in your own words, two reasons why religion is difficult to define.
• Select one method for studying religion that you believe to be most thought-provoking and summarize the approach in your own words.
• Explain a strength of this approach to studying religion.
• Explain a weakness of this approach to studying religion.