What are the religions of the world, and how does religion manifest in modern society? Judaism, Christianity, and Islam originated in the Middle East and are referred to as Western religions. The...

What are the religions of the world, and how does religion manifest in modern society? Judaism, Christianity, and Islam originated in the Middle East and are referred to as Western religions. The three share many beliefs and practices; they are exclusive, evangelistic, and monotheistic. All three are divided into denominations and sects, and all have extreme groups and members who are fundamentalists. Hinduism, Confucianism, and Buddhism arose in Asia. They also have much in common, such as having more than one god and believing in reincarnation. Early sociologists thought religion would be replaced by secularization, but that has not occurred. Religious expression varies dramatically between societies. It has a stronger hold in developing countries. Europe is more secularized, and the United States is more religious.