Religious Studies A-Level
Reductionism
What Reductionism means in Religious Studies A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Reductionism
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Reductionism in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The practice of analyzing and describing a complex phenomenon in terms of its simple or fundamental constituents. In this context, explaining religious experience as 'nothing but' brain activity or psychological projection.
Topics that use Reductionism
- Philosophy of Religion (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Epistemic Distance
- Eschatological Verification
- Gratuitous Suffering
- Mystical Experience
- Numinous
- Principle of Credulity
- Privatio Boni
- Soul-Making
Using Reductionism in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Religious Studies questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Religious Studies A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge