Religion, which is a significant part of human existence, is associated with several assumptions regarding its origins and reasons for existence. Over the years, several theorists drawn from varied disciplines have made efforts to make sense of the concept of religion. While others feel that religion is a necessary part of life, there are those who think that religion and all that it stands for is punitive and unnecessary. In chapter one, the author makes several assumptions regarding religion in an attempt to demystify the religious discourse. The author does this by analysing the theories proposed by several individuals as well as comparing the main world religions.
The author makes uses of several theories to bring to light the central assumptions related to religion. Religion is considered a man's invention in an effort to get fulfilment and solutions to the challenges humans encounter in life. The author uses the term materialistic perspective to establish that “the supernatural is invented by humans; only the material world exists” (“Materialistic perspective: humans invented religion,” 5). Another assumption that the author makes is that human beings rely on religion, as it is useful. According to the author Religions “do things for us, such as helping us to define ourselves and making our world and life comprehensible to us” (“Functional perspective: religion is useful,” 12). Moreover, it is clear that religion plays a crucial role in transforming human beings as religions propose ideas to deal with human flaws.
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From the assumptions, it is clear that religion through a human invention plays a central role in the lives of the concerned human beings. One assumption I would bring to the study of religion is the assumption that religions help transform people. The reason for this choice is the fact that humans are inherently evil and it is only religion, which can transform individuals and societies for the better. According to Panikkar and Pavan (2015, 30), “religion is useful as it in its broadest etymological sense: something that transforms Man into an integral, healthy, free, and perfect being.” However, it is crucial for individuals to identify the biases associated with each religion to avoid becoming a victim of irrational religious beliefs (O’Brien, 2016, 20). As it is, every other religion has its basic tenets but at the core of each religion is a belief in higher power, human weaknesses, or hope for the challenges facing humans.
References
O’Brien, J. & Palmer, M. (2016). The atlas of religion. Los Angeles: University of California. Press.
Panikkar, R. & Pavan, M. C. (2015). Religion and religions. New York: Orbis Books.
_______ Functional perspective: Religion is useful
________Materialistic perspective: Humans invented religion
