Summary of Beliefs

Overview of Belief Systems

• Beliefs can be religious or non-religious.
• Religious beliefs involve a belief in a higher power and encompass various practices and texts that impact all aspects of life.
• Non-religious belief systems (ideologies) focus on explaining specific life aspects rather than addressing the entirety of life.

Influence on Identity

• The nature of an individual’s beliefs plays a crucial role in shaping both personal and social identity.
• This development is influenced by the need to address different facets of existence.

Sociological Perspectives

• Émile Durkheim defined religion as a unified system of beliefs and practices concerning sacred elements, creating a moral community (church) among adherents.
• Different individuals may conceptualise religion through:
  • Holy places
  • Practices such as prayer and meditation
  • Religious texts offering guidance for living

Impact on Development

• Beliefs act as the foundation for an individual’s morals, ethics, and values.
• They significantly influence worldviews and interpersonal relationships.
• Beliefs can be inherited from family or chosen actively by individuals.

Examples of Impact

• An illustrative example is the belief system of Islam, which influences the life of its adherents from birth to death, affecting all life components.

Conclusion

• An individual's beliefs are integral to their value systems and practices, particularly regarding what they regard as sacred or spiritually significant, thus impacting every aspect of their life.