Religion (n.) is a force that binds the members of society to the group, promotes cohesion as a positive feature, consistency (social control) and provides 'meaning' when times are bad. 'Religion happens' when there is a separation between the profane and the sacred.
Religion (n.) is a projection of the social values of society.
Religion (n.) is a system of ideas by means of which individuals imagine the society of which the are members and the obscure yet intimate relations they have with it.
Religion (n.) is a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things, that is to say, things set apart and forbidden beliefs and practices which unite into one single moral community called a church, all those who adhere to them.
Religion (n.) is a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things.