Introduction to Sociology
Third Edition
Study Questions
- At the beginning of the chapter, Ritzer says that many scholars see religion as difficult or impossible to define. Why do you think that is?
- How can you apply “paradox of community” to extreme fundamentalist Islam and the impact of the war on terror?
- Do you think religion will strengthen or weaken in the future? Explain your answer.
- Some religious leaders suggest that science is the enemy of religion. Do you think this is true? Why or why not? (Hint: consider what science tries to explain versus what religion tries to explain).
- How does belief differ from fact? Give examples.
- How has secularization changed American society? What are the positive and negative aspects of secularization?