1. Religion & Spirituality
literalism
<Back to Last Page >     <Glossary Index>

 Related Terms
• religion
• scripture
• fundamentalism

 

Definition:
The concept of literalism is, in religion, applied to any formal attempt to interpret scriptures based upon the primary consideration of using a literal, straightforward meaning. This is contrasted with more allegorical or metaphorical readings of the same material.

Also Known As: none

Alternate Spellings: none

Common Misspellings: none

Related Resources:

What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.

<Back to Last Page >     <Glossary Index>

Discuss in my forum

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.