Ashford ANT351 Week 1 Discussion (dq1+dq2) Latest

ANT351 Anthropology of Religion, Magic and Ritual

Week 1 Discussion

DQ1 Defining Religion

Defining Religion. 1st Post Due by Day 3. Reflecting on "Studying Religion Anthropologically" by Eller, consider the different definitions of religion that have been proposed by anthropologists. Which one do you most agree with? In your own words, how would you define religion?

Reflecting on "Religion: Bound to believe?" by Boyer, do you agree that belief is likely to remain more prevalent than non-belief? According to Boyer, what cognitive traits predispose us toward religious belief?

Support your positions with specific examples from the required and recommended resources. Be prepared to respectfully debate with your classmates.

Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources, and properly cite any references.

DQ2 Amulets and Talismans

Amulets and Talismans. 1st Post Due by Day 3. In her article “Thai Buddhism and the Popularity of Amulets in Anthropological Perspective,” Moro argues that amulets in Thailand “primarily function as objects of actual power.” What do you think she means by this statement? Do you have any amulets or talismans that you carry with you or that you keep in your home? If so, what are they? If you do not, why not? Are talismans or amulets objects “of actual power” or do they serve as a “sign of pride” or a “personal reminder of faith?”What is the difference?

Your initial post should be at least 250 words in length. Support your claims with examples from required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources, and properly cite any references.