ShowID

565

Event Date:

8/16/2006

Length:

00:28:57

Category:

GSU Telecourse

Producer

PBS

Project

Faces of Culture

Comments

Comments: All societies incorporate some way to provide meaning and explain the unknown into their culture. These structures are called religion. This program illustrates and describes various examples of religion around the world and defines the difference between religion and magic. It includes footage of American Indians practicing animism, demonstrating their belief in the Great Spirit and attempting to restore the balance between good and evil by the ritualistic carvings of a medicine mask. Also shown are scenes of religious practices among the Highland Maya, who have combined ancient beliefs and Roman Catholicism [religious syncretism -- cargo cult -- Appeals to Santiago]; the ritual of the Eka Dasa Tudra, a complicated ceremony celebrated by the Balinese that links the worlds of gods, people and demons; and modern Hare Krishnas in Los Angeles. Revitalization movements, such as those of the Mormons, also are depicted. The program concludes with a look at modern industrial nations where religious practices have been separated from the secular aspects of life and culture. Finally, there is a brief discussion of the role science plays in modern societies and its relationship to religion.

LocalID:

FOC20

Notes:

Expiration Date:

Schedule Information:

This show is not currently scheduled.