Religion is a cultural system of beliefs, behaviors and ethics. It also involves a set of ideas about the nature and purpose of life, the universe and humanity. Some people find these ideas comforting, reassuring and validating. Others find them to be oppressive, divisive and dangerous. There are many different religions in the world, and there is no one size fits all approach to religion. The study of religion is a part of academic philosophy, but is also practiced by individuals and groups who seek to understand the nature of the beliefs of other cultures around the world.
Religions protect and transmit the means to attain the most important goals imaginable, some of which are proximate (a wiser, more fruitful, more charitable, more successful way of living), and some which are ultimate: rebirth or union with God. In addition, they provide a social structure, often organizing hierarchies and enforcing codes of recognition and behaviour. In the twentieth century there have been many examples of religious violence and spiritual terrorization, but also many examples of people resisting a threat to their religion and all that goes with it.
The definition of religion has been the subject of much debate, especially in recent times, with some arguing that the concept is a social construct with no true substance. Others argue that there are fundamental tenets about the nature of religion which must be respected, and that any concept that sorts cultures should have a core of defining characteristics.