The Reticular Religion Or The Religion Of The Network
The Reticular Religion Or The Religion Of The Network

Summary/Abstract: Religion should not be confused or mistaken for theism, pantheism, or other forms of what is called religious faith, such as the belief in gods or God, etc. This phenomenon is rooted in human nature and the need for meaning. According to Jacques Ellul, religion is of a pragmatic nature, being the way through which mankind orients itself in existence. Religion offers a comprehensive interpretation of reality, a map, whose function is not properly intellectual but existential, providing means of orientation in existence. That is why science cannot replace it. It allows man to find himself and to act in the world. It helps to build a community between mankind and the world around it, making it possible for mankind to understand itself and the world. It makes it possible for humanity to better cope with its existential condition. It does have some irrational elements to it, and it might be based on unverifiable beliefs. But here lies one of its functions, namely, to offer certitudes that help man orient himself in the real. Thus, it does offer a view and an explanation of the world. There is no religion without such an explanation (Ellul: 2003: 199). In this paper, I shall describe what might be called the religion of the network.

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