Religious Question of the Week
What percentage of American Muslims fast for Ramadan?
According to a survey published by the Pew Research Center, 80% of American Muslims observe the holy month by fasting. In that 80%, there is little distinction between Muslims who were born overseas or in the United States, black or white, men or women.
Past Questions
Most Americans say it’s not necessary to believe in God in order to be moral and have good values, according to a spring 2022 Pew Research Center survey. About two-thirds of Americans say this, while about a third say belief in God is an essential component of morality (65% vs. 34%).
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REL 102 - Violence and Religious Ethics
Currently, about three-in-ten U.S. adults or 29% are religious “nones” – people who describe themselves as atheists, agnostics or “nothing in particular".
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REL 104 - Introduction to Religious Studies
This week's question is inspired by an article featured in the San Francisco Chronicle, written by our own Professor Samuel Hayim Brody.
"The struggle for religious freedom in second-century B.C. Israel between the Jewish guerrilla fighters known as the Maccabees and the Syrian-Greek tyrant, Antiochus. The miraculous Maccabean victory over the superior forces of the enemy was underscored by an additional miracle at the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem, as oil that should have lasted only one night instead lasted for eight."
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While today January 1st is not usually associated with religion, it does, like many New Years celebrations around the world, have its roots in religion.
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REL 104 - Introduction to Religious Studies
The three countries with the largest percentage of the adult population practicing Buddhism are Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, where at least 70% of adults adhere to the Buddhist faith. It is noteworthy that in these nations, the relationship between religion and nationalism is deeply intertwined. Buddhism plays a significant role not only as a spiritual practice but also as a cultural and national identity.
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2, Albania and Turkey.
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REL 104 - Introduction to Religious Studies