The Human World: Religion

World Geography

What is Culture?• A way of life – how needs are met, language, art,

beliefs, customs, roles, and institutions– Customs – things people usually do– Roles – based on rules for the proper behavior of people

in particular positions and situations– Institutions – organizations developed by each society to

make social roles clear and take care of social needs

Major World Religions• Religion – a set of beliefs about the meaning of life,

the nature of the universe, and the existence of the supernatural

• Religion is one of the more divisive institutions– The Crusades– Inquisitions– Spanish Conquistadors– Pilgrims– Nazis– Israel vs. Palestine– Taliban & ISIS

The Elements of Culture

• Religion– Major Religions

Christianity

Islam

Judaism

Judaism, Christianity, and Islam all derived from Southwest Asia (Middle East)

The Elements of Culture

• Religion– Major Religions

Buddhism

Hinduism

Buddhism and Hinduism derived from South Asia

Major World ReligionsFive Major Religions Questionnaire (Mastering the TEKS: p.125-129)- In Groups, each member answers following questions for

the five major religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam)- When did it begin and where (use notes if necessary)?- What does it teach?- Does it have a central figure/prophet? If so, who?- What is its holy book(s) or writings?- Where is it predominately practiced (countries/area of world)?- How many people follow it?

- When you finish your section(s), share with your group.

Major World Religions• Animism – the belief that many things in nature

have their own spirit– One of the earliest forms of religion

• Sikhism– Combines Hindu and Muslim beliefs