W5.1 TANG YINI 탕이니

 1.Summary 

 Based on the information I have gathered, sociologists approach the study of religion similarly to how they study other social institutions such as education or government. Their primary aim is to understand religion, but their ultimate goal is to attempt to predict the direction or future forms of religion. To achieve this, sociologists employ techniques such as demographic analysis, survey analysis, ethnography, and various other methodologies.It is important to emphasize that sociologists studying religion are not aiming to prove, refute, or evaluate the correctness of religion. Their stance is relatively neutral, maintaining a neutral position on questions of correctness or incorrectness. Social science research on religion may pose challenges because it offers alternative, naturalistic explanations.The starting point of studying religion should be the definition of concepts. Three general definitions have been proposed when defining religion, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. These definitions include Durkheim's distinction between the sacred and the profane, religion as attempts to answer existential questions, and religion as collective beliefs and rituals related to the supernatural. While each definition has its limitations, sociologists may choose different definitions depending on specific investigations or research questions.

2.Interesting points

The primary objective of sociologists is to understand religion, but their ultimate goal is to attempt to predict the direction of religious evolution or its future forms. This implies that their study of religion involves not only describing its history and current state but also contemplating potential trends for the future.

3. Questions 

What methodologies do sociologists use when studying religion? How do these methodologies assist them in understanding religion and its evolution?

Comments

  1. Cheng YatingApril 4, 2024 at 9:19 PM

    I think they may use surveys and questionnaires, which allow sociologists to collect data from large samples of individuals, exploring their religious beliefs, practices, affiliations, and attitudes. Surveys can provide quantitative data on religious demographics, trends, and variations within and across populations, helping sociologists understand the prevalence and distribution of religious phenomena.

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  2. 계해운 JIHAIYUNApril 5, 2024 at 3:52 AM

    Sociologists use quantitative and qualitative research methods such as surveys, interviews, fieldwork, etc., to study religion. These methods help them understand religious beliefs, practices, organizational forms, and the role and impact of religion in society.

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