Final answer:
A religion is comprised of a system of beliefs, values, and practices which contribute to an individual's and a community's sense of identity. Religion is a universal cultural phenomenon that influences many aspects of life and society, and it serves both personal and social needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
A religion is comprised of a system of beliefs, values, and practices which contribute to a person's sense of identity. These components of religion are foundational in shaping the way individuals and communities understand their existence, relate to the sacred or the supernatural, and interact with one another. Whether it involves participation in rituals, adherence to a set of moral codes, or the observance of religious holidays, these elements work together to form a collective moral community, often referred to as a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, or another place of worship.
Religion is deeply intertwined with culture and can influence numerous aspects of life, including politics, economics, and personal interactions. It encompasses a variety of expressions such as feasts and festivals, marital and funeral services, meditation, and even arts. Max Weber and Karl Marx had differing views on the role of religion in society, with Weber seeing it as a possible force for social change and Marx critiquing it as a tool for perpetuating social inequality. Nonetheless, religion remains a universal cultural phenomenon, practiced in some form across every known society.
Religion serves as a means for individuals to find meaning in life and understand the universe. It provides a connection to the sacred, guiding adherents in both personal spirituality and social behavior. Sociologists recognize religion as both a personal belief system and a social institution, as it fulfills basic social needs and values. Even individuals who do not adhere to a particular religion or have any religious affiliation can be influenced by religion's social and cultural impacts.