A belief in gods and goddesses, or in a single supreme being. It may also refer to a group of people who share certain beliefs and practices, such as Muslims, Christians or Jews.

Philosophers have attempted to analyze religion by developing definitions that can sort social realities according to their similarities and differences. Most of these efforts, however, have been criticized for either being too narrow or too broad.

The most commonly used definitions of religion are called “substantive” because they define membership in the category by focusing on the presence of belief in a distinctive kind of reality. In the last several decades, however, there has been a growing interest in dropping the substantive element of religion and defining it in terms of the distinctive role that a form of life can play in a community – what philosophers call a “functional” approach to the concept.

Some people think that the idea of a higher power can be calming and comforting, especially during difficult times. Others believe that being part of a religious community can improve mental wellbeing, for example by helping people set goals and stick with them. It has even been found that believing in something bigger than yourself can give your life meaning and purpose, and that sense of purpose is linked to better health.

Other researchers have found that religiosity has some negative consequences for individuals and society. For example, some find that it can lead to division and stress when people disagree with their religious beliefs, or when religious communities are skewed by gender or race. But it has also been found that being a religious person can reduce depression and anxiety, and that people who attend church or synagogue appear to live longer than those who don’t.