The Non-Optional Basis of Religion

Abstract

This article discusses the theoretical differences between civil religion, political religion and religion and their relationship based on the non-optional. While Emilio Gentile has provided a foundation to explore civil and political religions, he has not provided a definition for his understanding of what a religion is and the possible antithesis to religious organisation. In order to define the civil and political variants of religion accurately, a solid understanding of religion, its place in history and how it has changed needs to be addressed. This article explores a definition of religion that understands the civil and political variants by situating them within the non-optional element of religion. Crucial to the non-optional element is the idea of 'choice'. It is, therefore, the conclusion of this article that choice, the non-optional basis of religion, is the core difference between what is a civil religion, a political religion and a religion.