01 May 2015

A Brief Note on the Nature of Religion

93 Words.

A religion is often thought of in a monolithic sense. However, this is misleading. It is more useful to think of religion as being divided into three broad interrelated groupings: Folk, Elite, and Doctrinal. Folk religion is followed by the lower classes and tends to be superstitious and based on practices. The Elite interpretation is followed by the upper classes and tends to be more intellectually oriented. Finally, the Doctrinal practices is the official line promoted by the priesthood, texts, and organization. These are best conceived as habitus (ala Bourdieu) than orthodox restrictions.

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