When thinking of ‘class,’ I have always defined it as the systematic order of a society where the people are divided because of their economic standing, a notion that we have created to categorize people based on how we perceive others solely on their status. In the academic study of religion, I learned that ‘class’ can determine how an individual may practice their religion as well as the solid connection it has from past lessons on power. In this lesson, McCloud places emphasis on how pivotal ‘class’ can be to the study of religion. He demonstrates the role ‘class’ has by mentioning the differences between the lower class versus the higher classes and their way of practicing religion. The idea of lower and higher ‘classes’ further brings attention to which group has more power. Those of higher social statuses have more power than others because they have more opportunities, more money to invest in religions, and generally often are given more notice compared to those of lower division. These individuals also are able to influence politics and other areas of the economy that give them a voice and higher social standing overall.
#IntroRelsUH