Religions are powerful social forces, and their influence can be seen in a variety of ways. It can be reflected in culture and politics, for example through holidays, feasts, art and music and dress codes. Religion can also be a source of euphoria or despair, depending on one’s beliefs and personal experience. Religions tend to emphasize that life has a spiritual dimension and that rewards or punishments are brought on by approved or disapproved behaviour. In its negative form it can impose discipline and morality on people, or provide the basis for violent and authoritarian regimes. In its positive form it encourages a sense of community and belonging, provides a model for living, and teaches values and skills like humour, forgiveness and self-control.
Throughout history, scholars have debated how religion should be defined. Some have used functional definitions which are broad and inclusive – almost any movement with a belief system and committed group of followers could be classified as a religion. Others have tried to define religion more substantively and this has often been a more difficult task.
Today, the concept of religion is often used as a taxon, sorting sets of practices into categories. These include Judaism, Christianity and Islam as the so-called world religions, but there are also many religious practices which do not have a name. Some, such as acupuncture or homeopathy, are not recognised by official authorities but have been shown to be effective in treating some conditions. Others, such as sex education or incest taboos, are controversial but have been shown to be beneficial in reducing the incidence of out-of-wedlock births and other social pathologies.