Before we get deep into this, I just want to caution everyone. I feel that this discussion, despite everyone's best intentions could quickly feel like an attack on individuals' beliefs as this may challenge everyone's current thoughts. For everyone who may or may not become involved in this, please be as considerate as possible. That being said, I encourage you all share your opinions.
My definition comes from an actual definition provided at infoplease.com, but can also be found at dictionary.com --I found this when doing research for a college assignment. 1) [A] set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs. By this, I mean we all have our own kind of religion regardless of what believe or do not believe. (If this needs clarity, feel free to ask by explaining what you are unsure about).
Please go back and read the definition again, but carefully note the use of the words especially (abbreviated above), usually, and often. Taking this into account, this tells me that a religion does not always consider the universe to be the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies. In addition it does not require the involvement of devotional or ritual observances, nor must it contain a moral code. To get to the bottom line, I believe that all sets of beliefs are, in and of themselves, religions.
Once again, I encourage everyone to share their opinions. Thank you for reading.
Before we get deep into this, I just want to caution everyone. I feel that this discussion, despite everyone's best intentions could quickly feel like an attack on individuals' beliefs as this may challenge everyone's current thoughts. For everyone who may or may not become involved in this, please be as considerate as possible. That being said, I encourage you all share your opinions.
My definition comes from an actual definition provided at infoplease.com, but can also be found at dictionary.com --I found this when doing research for a college assignment. 1) [A] set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe, esp. when considered as the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies, usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs. By this, I mean we all have our own kind of religion regardless of what believe or do not believe. (If this needs clarity, feel free to ask by explaining what you are unsure about).
Please go back and read the definition again, but carefully note the use of the words especially (abbreviated above), usually, and often. Taking this into account, this tells me that a religion does not always consider the universe to be the creation of a superhuman agency or agencies. In addition it does not require the involvement of devotional or ritual observances, nor must it contain a moral code. To get to the bottom line, I believe that all sets of beliefs are, in and of themselves, religions.
Once again, I encourage everyone to share their opinions. Thank you for reading.