Religion and Social Stratification

Religious affiliation is not a dimension of social stratification because it does not directly determine an individual's access to resources or power.

Religious stratification is the idea that religion can be used to justify and maintain social inequality.

The caste system in India, the Jim Crow laws in the United States, and the apartheid system in South Africa are all examples of religious stratification.

Liberation theology is the idea that religion can be used to challenge and overcome social inequality.

The Black Church in the United States, the Catholic Church in Latin America, and the Anglican Church in South Africa are all examples of liberation theology.

Religious meaning-making is the idea that religion can provide a sense of meaning and purpose to life.

Attending religious services, praying, and reading religious texts are all examples of religious meaning-making.

Religious community is the idea that religion can provide a sense of community and belonging.

Attending religious services, participating in religious rituals, and being a member of a religious organization are all examples of religious community.

Religious coping is the idea that religion can provide a sense of comfort and support in times of need.

Praying, reading religious texts, and talking to a religious leader are all examples of religious coping.

Religious identity is the idea that religion can provide a sense of identity and purpose in life.

Identifying as a Christian, Muslim, or Jew, participating in religious rituals, and being a member of a religious organization are all examples of religious identity.

Religious transcendence is the idea that religion can provide a sense of transcendence and connection to something greater than oneself.

Having a mystical experience, feeling a sense of awe and wonder at the beauty of nature, and experiencing a sense of connection to God or a higher power are all examples of religious transcendence.