Final answer:
Clifford Geertz's definition of religion as a system of symbols is useful for anthropologists because it allows for a complex understanding of religion's role in culture and social life, transcending simplistic interpretations and delving into the symbolic meanings and motivations for the community of believers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clifford Geertz's definition of religion is particularly useful for anthropologists because it encapsulates the complexity and symbolically rich nature of religious practices and beliefs. This perspective enables anthropologists to see religion as more than a set of doctrines—it is a system of symbols that provides meaningful frameworks through which people interpret their experiences and existence.
Geertz defines religion as "a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, persuasive, and long-lasting moods and motivations... by formulating conceptions of a general order of existence and clothing these conceptions with such an aura of factuality that the moods and motivations seem uniquely realistic." Such a definition steers clear of reducing religion to mere belief in supernatural beings or a set of rituals, acknowledging instead its deeper role in shaping human culture and social life.
The symbols in religion, such as the Christian cross, are not just representative; they are also operative in reinforcing the cultural values and collective identity of the community of believers. Therefore, for anthropologists seeking to understand human behavior and social structures, Geertz's definition serves as a sophisticated tool to analyze the intertwined nature of religion and culture.