1.
Which is NOT a function of religion?
Correct Answer
C. Is the origin of a society's world view
Explanation
Religion plays a significant role in shaping a society's world view, providing a framework through which individuals perceive and understand the world around them. It interprets humans and their universe, offering explanations for the mysteries of life. Additionally, religion provides motives for human actions, guiding individuals' behavior and moral choices. It also provides a validation for human existence, giving meaning and purpose to life. Therefore, the given answer is incorrect, as being the origin of a society's world view is indeed one of the functions of religion.
2.
All religions have in common, by definition:
Correct Answer
D. Belief in some form of the supernatural
Explanation
All religions share a belief in some form of the supernatural. This means that followers of different religions believe in the existence of forces or beings beyond the natural world, such as gods, spirits, or divine powers. This belief in the supernatural is a fundamental aspect of religious faith and shapes religious practices, rituals, and worldviews. It provides a framework for understanding and interpreting the world, as well as offering explanations for the unexplained and a source of meaning and purpose in life.
3.
Religion is an example of:
Correct Answer
B. A belief system
Explanation
Religion is considered a belief system because it involves faith and conviction in the existence of a higher power or supernatural beings. It encompasses a set of beliefs, values, rituals, and practices that guide individuals in their understanding of the world and their place in it. Unlike scientific knowledge, which is based on empirical evidence and experimentation, religion relies on subjective experiences, traditions, and scriptures. While religion may influence legal systems in some cases, it is not inherently a legal system itself. Therefore, the most appropriate classification for religion in this context is a belief system.
4.
The "biological basis" of religion is:
Correct Answer
D. A function of our big, complex brains
Explanation
The biological basis of religion refers to the idea that religion is a function of our big, complex brains. This means that our brains have evolved in a way that allows us to have religious beliefs and engage in religious practices. The complexity of our brains enables us to think abstractly, imagine supernatural beings, and seek meaning and purpose in life. Religion serves various functions for individuals and societies, such as providing comfort, social cohesion, and explanations for the unknown. Therefore, the biological basis of religion suggests that our brains have adapted to facilitate religious beliefs and behaviors.
5.
Whether a society practices a monotheistic or polytheistic religion is most directly related to:
Correct Answer
B. A people's relation with and degree of control over their environment
Explanation
The correct answer is a people's relation with and degree of control over their environment. This is because the type of religion practiced by a society is often influenced by their understanding and interaction with the natural world. In societies where people have a strong connection and control over their environment, such as agricultural societies, they may be more likely to believe in a single god who controls and influences nature. On the other hand, in societies where people have less control over their environment, such as hunter-gatherer societies, they may believe in multiple gods who govern different aspects of nature.
6.
Christianity is an example of:
Correct Answer
C. A polytheistic religion with a hierarchically arranged set of supernatural beings
7.
Which of the following is NOT an example of something with mana?
Correct Answer
D. A pHysician with extensive knowledge about medicine and healing
Explanation
In various cultures, mana is often associated with objects or places that are believed to possess spiritual or supernatural power. The crystal, crucifix, and sacred stones are all examples of objects that are believed to have mana. However, a physician with extensive knowledge about medicine and healing does not possess any inherent spiritual or supernatural power, so it is not an example of something with mana.
8.
Christianity recognizes which kinds of supernatural entities?
Correct Answer
D. All three types
Explanation
Christianity recognizes all three types of supernatural entities, including those with mana, those of nonhuman origin, and those of human origin. This belief is rooted in the Christian understanding of the spiritual realm, which acknowledges the existence of angels, demons, and the Holy Spirit. Additionally, Christianity recognizes the divine nature of Jesus Christ, who is both fully human and fully divine. Therefore, the answer "all three types" aligns with the inclusive perspective of Christianity towards supernatural entities.
9.
The personality of supernatural beings seems most closely related to:
Correct Answer
C. How a group of people sees their environment
Explanation
The personality of supernatural beings is most closely related to how a group of people sees their environment. This suggests that the beliefs and perceptions of a society shape the characteristics and behaviors attributed to supernatural beings. The way a group of people interprets and understands their surroundings influences their conception of supernatural entities, which in turn reflects their cultural values, fears, and aspirations. The supernatural beings may embody elements of the environment that are significant or mysterious to the group, serving as a reflection of their collective worldview.
10.
Generally, the degree to which the supernatural intervenes directly in the daily affairs of people corresponds to:
Correct Answer
B. The degree of scientific knowledge possessed by the society
Explanation
The correct answer is the degree of scientific knowledge possessed by the society. This means that the more scientific knowledge a society possesses, the less likely they are to attribute events to supernatural intervention. As scientific knowledge and understanding increase, people are more likely to seek natural explanations for phenomena that were previously considered supernatural. This suggests that the belief in supernatural intervention decreases as scientific knowledge and understanding increase.
11.
Which is NOT true of a shaman?
Correct Answer
D. Generally found in more complex societies
Explanation
A shaman is a part-time religious specialist who is chosen for the job by the supernatural and performs only when needed for tasks like curing. However, it is not true that shamans are generally found in more complex societies. In fact, shamans can be found in various societies, regardless of their complexity.
12.
A religious specialist who is full-time, trains for their profession, and possesses knowledge rather than power is a:
Correct Answer
C. Priest
Explanation
A religious specialist who is full-time, trains for their profession, and possesses knowledge rather than power is a priest. Priests are typically associated with organized religions and are responsible for performing religious rituals, leading worship services, and providing spiritual guidance to their community. They acquire their expertise through education and training, focusing on religious doctrines and practices. Unlike sorcerers or magicians who may rely on supernatural powers or tricks, priests rely on their knowledge and understanding of religious principles to fulfill their role. Shamans, on the other hand, are typically associated with indigenous cultures and often possess powers or abilities beyond their religious expertise.
13.
Prayer, eating, sacrifice, music, transcendent states, and physical abuse all have what function in the context of religion?
Correct Answer
D. To help get in touch with the supernatural
Explanation
These activities, such as prayer, eating, sacrifice, music, transcendent states, and physical abuse, serve the function of helping individuals connect or communicate with the supernatural realm. They are believed to create a bridge between the physical world and the spiritual or divine entities. Through these practices, individuals seek to establish a connection, seek guidance, express devotion, or experience a sense of transcendence or spiritual awakening.
14.
In an anthropological context, magic refers to:
Correct Answer
D. Acts performed to try to control the supernatural
Explanation
In an anthropological context, magic refers to acts performed to try to control the supernatural. This means that in anthropological studies, magic is seen as a practice or ritual performed by individuals or groups in an attempt to manipulate or influence supernatural forces or beings. It is not limited to illusionists like David Copperfield or Seigfried and Roy, nor does it necessarily involve phony or evil deeds. Instead, it is a cultural phenomenon aimed at harnessing or controlling the supernatural for various purposes.
15.
In historical perspective, Christianity arose:
Correct Answer
D. As an offshoot of the Jewish messianic tradition
Explanation
Christianity arose as an offshoot of the Jewish messianic tradition. This means that Christianity originated from the belief in a Messiah within the Jewish faith. Jesus, who is considered the central figure in Christianity, was seen by his followers as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecies regarding the coming Messiah. As a result, a new religious movement emerged that incorporated elements of Judaism while introducing new teachings and beliefs. This explanation suggests that Christianity has its roots in the Jewish messianic tradition, but evolved into a distinct religion with its own beliefs and practices.
16.
Which was NOT connected with the Hutterites' adoption of the communal lifestyle?
Correct Answer
A. Their communist political views
Explanation
The Hutterites' adoption of the communal lifestyle was not connected to their communist political views. The Hutterites embraced communal living based on the lifestyle of the early Christian communities, as well as in response to persecution of Anabaptists. Additionally, the fact that most of the early Hutterites were skilled artisans and craftspersons also played a role in their adoption of the communal lifestyle.
17.
In broad historical/anthropological perspective, the Anabaptists were persecuted because:
Correct Answer
D. They posed a threat to the power and authority of the groups in charge
Explanation
The Anabaptists were persecuted because they posed a threat to the power and authority of the groups in charge. This is evident from the fact that they started interpreting the Bible on their own and believed in adult baptism, which challenged the established religious and political order. By questioning the authority of the ruling groups and promoting their own interpretations, the Anabaptists challenged the status quo and were seen as a threat to the existing power structures. As a result, they faced persecution in order to maintain the control and authority of the dominant groups.
18.
From an anthropological perspective, people in the Holiness Church handle snakes, speak in tongues, and drink poison because:
Correct Answer
C. It provides them with a sense of control over some aspect of their lives
Explanation
People in the Holiness Church handle snakes, speak in tongues, and drink poison because it provides them with a sense of control over some aspect of their lives. This explanation suggests that engaging in these practices gives them a feeling of empowerment and mastery over their own lives and spiritual experiences. It implies that they may find comfort and reassurance in the belief that they have the ability to handle dangerous situations and overcome challenges through their faith and connection with God.
19.
In what way might the Holiness Church be said to be egalitarian?
Correct Answer
D. There is no formal leader, and belief and activity are personal and individual
Explanation
The Holiness Church can be considered egalitarian because it does not have a formal leader, and each member is free to have their own personal beliefs and engage in their own activities. This lack of hierarchy and central authority promotes equality among the members, as no one person holds more power or influence over others. This allows for a more egalitarian and democratic approach to religious practice within the Holiness Church.
20.
In a sense, each person who has received the Holy Ghost might be considered a:
Correct Answer
A. Shaman
Explanation
The term "shaman" is often used to describe individuals who have received the Holy Ghost, as they are believed to have a special connection with the spiritual realm and possess the ability to communicate with and heal others through spiritual means. This term is commonly used in indigenous cultures to refer to individuals who serve as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds, similar to the role of someone who has received the Holy Ghost. Therefore, "shaman" is an appropriate term to describe individuals who have received the Holy Ghost.
21.
According to anthropologist Westen LaBarre, what does sex have to do with the Holiness services?
Correct Answer
C. Services are an opportunity to express sexual identity and for social interaction
Explanation
The correct answer suggests that sex has to do with the Holiness services because they provide an opportunity for individuals to express their sexual identity and engage in social interaction. This implies that the services create a space where individuals can explore and express their sexuality within a religious context, while also fostering connections and relationships with others in the community.
22.
Which of the following is NOT true of the relationship between religion and legal systems?
Correct Answer
B. In complex cultures, law completely replaces religion as a basis for behavior
Explanation
In complex cultures, law does not completely replace religion as a basis for behavior. While legal systems may play a significant role in governing behavior, religion often continues to influence individuals and societies in various ways. Religion can provide moral guidance, shape values and beliefs, and influence social norms and customs. In many cases, legal systems and religious beliefs coexist and interact, with laws reflecting religious principles or being influenced by religious teachings. Therefore, it is not true that law completely replaces religion as a basis for behavior in complex cultures.