Dzyuba O. Theoretical and methodological problems of the Religious Studies: Religion as a System

The dissertation is devoted to explaining the theoretical and methodological aspects of religion as a system. It was proved that in order to consider religion as a system, it is recommended to look at this system as at unique phenomenon, that means we need to determine the transcendental reasons (the "possibility conditions") of religion. Such possibility conditions are religion basic structural elements, which are the internal aspects of the system. The external aspect of the system is religion functionality, where religion functions are considered by the following parameters: in relation to the system itself, the immanent level; in relation to social institutions; in relation to the separate individual. Using these parameters the religion structure is analyzed and set of elements is determined, which must be included to analytical model as the quantity of elements can vary in respect to the certain parameter. On the basis of the terms "sacred" or "holly" the definition of the religion core is developed or the system-forming factor is developed speaking in systematically approach. We can speak also about specific "religious consciousness guideline" and detach its structure. This structure in proposed analytical model appears as religion core, which are included in all parts of religion system; and that is why these parts gain the religion elements status. The following elements of religion structure are reflected in dissertation - the religious values (the things which determine religiousness in its interpretation or the things which are reflected in axiological thoughts of religious person); the religious doctrines (the reflexive represented filling of sacred, the religious core or the scope of certain determined theoretical statements, where the religious values are explained); the cult (the practical representation of scared fillings, the bunch of certain acts, in which the religious values are reflected in practical actions).