Question

Analyze William A. Young’s Definition of religion, our stipulative definition of religion in class, "Religion is human transformation in response to perceived ultimacy."

In your answer, discuss whether Young’s definition applies to TWO of the religions below. Provide examples for why the definition does or does not apply to the religion. Japanese Religions, Medieval Christianity, Scientology.
Write a minimum of one paragraph (6-8 sentences) for EACH religious tradition. Your answer must be in full sentences. Do not use bullet points.

Answer 1

The quote given in this passage explains how Young thought about the idea of religion. He states that religion is human transformation as a response to our perceived ultimacy. Our perceived ultimacy refers to our awareness of the fact that we are mortal, and that our lives are finite. Because of our own mortality, humans seek certain values in their lives, and one among these is that of transformation.

This idea applies to scientology. Scientology promotes a set of beliefs that are meant to encourage deep understanding of humanity, as well as a deep connection with past lives. A scientologist attempts to transform himself by learning about his past and gaining awareness that allows him to connect with extraterrestrial beings. The acknowledgement of past lives addresses the subject of ultimacy.

This idea is also present in Medieval Christianity. Medieval Christians believed that all men carry the original sin, and that, as sinful beings, we are all tempted by evil. In order to reconcile our ultimacy with the will of the Lord, it is necessary to improve ourselves and live in purity. Some of the habits that ensure this are prayer, blind faith, celibacy and charity.

Answer 2

William A. Young's phrase refers to the way that religion has the power to transform people in their extreme states, which is different from maintaining a relationship with God. For him, the extremism that religions establish ends up separating people.

An example of this can be seen in medieval Christianity. Although the Christian God is described as pious and liberating, Christian Christianity intensified extremism in people making them, in the name of Cyrstianism, highly merciless and establishing extremist and disastrous situations for those who somehow deviated from some Christian norm.

Scientology, on the other hand, defends unusual ideas, causing its members to relive extreme and very traumatic feelings as a way to achieve spiritual balance. This can be very detrimental to the psychic health of its members, triggering destructive behaviors and feelings that cause harm.