Kessler vs. Molloy: What is Religion and Religious Studies?

When it comes to religion and defining it, many people take different approaches and these two writers are no exception. There are far more differences between these two works than similarities.

Kessler begins by giving the reader characteristics of a good definition. He does not go into great depth to describe different types of religion, but describes things to look out for when developing definitions of religion. He shows how unidimensional measures are no very useful and explains how multidimensional definitions help us understand a religion more clearly. Kessler also gives the reader three types of definitions and explains them all to they can be

There were not many similarities between Molloy’s and Kessler’s discussions on religious studies, but they both seem concerned with religious studies and the effect it has on the rest of the world’s religions.

Molloy, on the other hand, has a totally different design when it comes to defining religion. There are many things Molloy discusses that Kessler does not even bring up in his work. He begins with a totally different objective than Kessler. He wonders on the sources of religion and what purposes it serves. Eh thinks the “most basic function of religion is to respond to our natural wonder about ourselves and the cosmos – our musings on a starry night. Religion helps us relate to the unknown universe around us by answering the basic questions of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going.” (Molloy, pg.3). he gives numerous examples of scholar’s opinions and beliefs on religions and the definition of religion, among whom are Sigmund Freud, William James, Rudolf Otto, and E.B. Taylor. Molloy goes into greater depth than Kessler on just about every topic he discuses. He gives characteristics of religion based on the question “What, then – if not a common set of elements – must be present for something to be called a religion?” (Molloy, pg. 5). He gives eight elements that organizations we call religion show in some way. He also discusses the sacred and symbolism and how they fit into most religions and Kessler does not even cover these subjects. One major difference between Molloy and Kessler is Molloy’s discussion on patterns among religions. The first is a focus on beliefs and practices, the second id religious views of the world and life, and the third is religious view of male and female. He seems to have a good knowledge of all these issues and is very detailed in each. He seems to be

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