The document discusses theories of cultural evolution and their interweaving with the study of religion. It outlines three 19th century schools of thought on the topic and identifies characteristics of rituals as communal, traditional, and rooted in beliefs. The document also summarizes Bell's identification of genres of ritual action and five characteristics of ritual-like activities.

2. Theories of the evolution of culture are interwoven with
the study of religion.
Three schools of theory emerged in the 19th century:
1. Myth and ritual
2. Sociological
3. Psychological

3. Three characteristics of ritual activities:
1. Communal
2. Traditional
3. Rooted in beliefs

4. Bell (2008) lists these genres of ritual action:
1. Rites of passage
2. Calendrical rites
3. Rules of exchange and communication
4. Rites of affliction
5. Feasting, fasting, and festivals
6. Political rites

5. Bell (2008) explains five characteristics of ritual-like
activities:
1. Formalization
2. Traditionalism
3. Invariance
4. Rule-governance
5. Sacral symbolism

6. Formalization: the degree of formality in dress or speech
that marks an activity ritual-like.

7. Traditionalism: (or, we have always done this) appeals to
cultural precedents.

8. Invariance: emphasizes precise repetition and physical
control.

9. Rule-governance: maintains that ritual-like activities are
governed by rules that guide and direct the activities.

10. Sacral symbolism: appeals to supernatural beings.

11. All of the previous characteristics are manifested in and
through performance.

12. Rituals, and ritual-like actions, abound in our daily lives
as a way to give meaning and significance.

13. Rituals are also marked by joy, fun, and anticipation.

14. Now, think about your own rituals and those of
your communities…