Reframing the Problem of Religion through Rethinking the Definition

• In Event: 165 - Section on Sociology of Religion Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 02. Religion and Its Challengers

Abstract

What religion “is” has left many writers vexed and left many others completely untroubled as they venture into a realm of belief that is difficult or seemingly impossible to capture. After reviewing several categories of definitions, the merits of Geertz’ extended definition of religion are discussed. Through a consideration of the shifting patterns of ‘moods’ and ‘motivations’ as well as the ‘models of’ and ‘models for’ reality, Geertz is able to construct a definition of religion that serves as an important model for thinking about religion.

Author

• Tom Segady, Stephen F. Austin State University