Skip to content

A religion is a system of symbols which acts to establish…

“A religion is a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, pervasive, and long-lasting moods in men by formulating conceptions of a general order of existence and clothing those conceptions with such an aura of factuality that the moods and motivations seem uniquely realistic.” quote by Clifford Geertz
Download Open image
“A religion is a system of symbols which acts to establish powerful, pervasive, and long-lasting moods in men by formulating conceptions of a general order of existence and clothing those conceptions with such an aura of factuality that the moods and motivations seem uniquely realistic.”

Clifford Geertz

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Religion creates pervasive moods by framing reality with symbolic concepts presented as factual.

In simple terms: Religion shapes moods through symbolic facts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how symbols shape perception.

Themes

religion symbols perception culture

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • media analysis
  • cultural studies
  • public policy

Key Concepts

anthropology social psychology semiotics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do symbols influence your mood?
  • Can you see beyond the aura of factuality?
A Different Perspective

Symbols can be manipulated for control.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Clifford Geertz

Explore all 58 Clifford Geertz quotes

More Auras quotes

Browse all 210 Auras quotes