# The Academic Struggle to Define Religion Scholars debate whether religion is defined by internal beliefs or observable human practices. - **Source:** [Big Think](https://bigthink.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c0ddf808-f01e-4e8e-bbe8-38dbdbd9d9d8 ## Persistent Academic Ambiguity Scholars of religion currently lack a universally accepted definition for the term. Andrew Henry, creator of Religion for Breakfast, argues that this persistent ambiguity is not a failure of scholarship but a reflection of the subject's complexity. The debate continues to challenge experts who attempt to categorize diverse global belief systems. ## Function Over Doctrine Henry proposes shifting the focus from what religions claim to what religious practices actually accomplish. By examining the functional role of rituals, researchers can identify patterns that transcend traditional theological boundaries. This methodology prioritizes observable human behavior over the abstract doctrinal statements that often complicate the search for a precise definition. ## Rituals and Shared Experiences The analysis suggests that a stadium chant and a church creed may share underlying psychological mechanisms. Both activities foster group cohesion and collective identity through rhythmic, repetitive participation. By comparing these seemingly disparate social phenomena, scholars can better understand how humans utilize ritualistic behavior to build community and reinforce shared values. ## Deconstructing True Christianity Defining 'true Christianity' remains an elusive task despite the assertions of many defenders. Henry notes that historical variations and diverse interpretations make it impossible to isolate a single, authentic version of the faith. This fluidity suggests that religious identity is constantly negotiated rather than being a static, unchanging set of core beliefs. ## Historical Jesus Debates The conversation addresses common points of contention, including the historical figure of Jesus. Scholars continue to navigate the gap between the theological Christ and the historical person documented in ancient texts. These debates highlight the difficulty of separating historical reality from the layers of tradition that have accumulated over two millennia. ## Western Values and Christianity The discussion critiques Tom Holland’s claim that Western values are inherently Christian at their core. By questioning this narrative, Henry invites a broader examination of how cultural norms evolve. This perspective challenges the assumption that modern secular ethics are merely a byproduct of Christian history, suggesting a more complex, multifaceted development. ## Methodological Shifts in Research The shift toward functionalism represents a broader trend in religious studies to move away from essentialist definitions. By focusing on how people 'do' religion, researchers avoid the trap of prioritizing one tradition's claims over another. This approach provides a more inclusive framework for studying the vast spectrum of human spiritual expression. ## Implications for Future Study The ongoing inability to define religion serves as a reminder of the limitations inherent in human categorization. As scholars continue to refine their tools, the focus remains on understanding the human experience rather than enforcing rigid labels. Future research will likely continue to emphasize the intersection of sociology, history, and psychology. ## Sources covering this story - https://bigthink.com/series/conversations/andrew-henry-defining-religion/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._