Philosophy Open Response Questions

1. Of all the main components of a religion, which one harks back to cultic practices? Explain.

2. How did religions spur civilizations?

3. What are religious symbols so important? Mention an important one.

4. Why is understanding the place of religion important these days?

5. Why is the figure of the shaman so important in the early development of religious practices?

6. Why is religious meaning so important for the spiritual well-being of human beings?

7. What is William James' argument in favor or religious faith?

8. Does Thomas Aquinas' "cosmological argument" makes metaphysical sense? Explain

9. Explain why is free will so central to theodicies?

10. Do you believe that the idea of evil is dismissive? Explain your answer.