Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Defining terms is one of the most fundamental tasks in social sciences. Scholars have long emphasized the necessity of creating a universal definition of religion that encompasses all religions and the associated sub-concepts. This study aims to examine definitions of religion proposed by certain psychologists of religion and provide a qualitative interpretation of definitions found in key sources within the field of the psychology of religion, attempting to develop universal definitions from the perspective of religious psychology. Experts in the field have not sufficiently reflected on the definition and contents of the concept of religion. Particularly in Turkey, psychologists of religion often avoid pursuing a universal definition of religion, claiming that defining religion is inherently difficult. The theoretical section of the study emphasizes that at least three sub-concepts must be combined to create a definition that includes all religions: the attribution of meaning/sacredness, belief systems, and rituals. The findings section identifies whether definitions incorporating these three sub-concepts exist in the scientific literature by providing examples. According to the study’s findings and interpretations, early psychoanalytic psychologists initially focused on what religion meant to individuals rather than offering a universal definition. However, more recently, definitions of religion that consider these three essential characteristics have started to emerge in both Western and Turkish contexts. The study also presents new definitions constructed based on the indispensable three sub-characteristics of religion. As a conclusion and recommendation, it is highlighted that for the psychology of religion to function as a universal scientific discipline, universal definitions of religion that encompass all religions must be established. Key Words: Religion, Sub-Cocepts of Religion, Definition of Religion In Psychology and Universal Definitions of Religion.
Author: Beyazıt Yaşar SEYHAN
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4405823073