Sources of authority
When it comes to finding out about or understanding something, or making decisions about what to do, most people have various sources of authorityReligious texts or bodies responsible for guiding people on how to live. they can go to for guidance and help. These might include:
- friends
- family
- personal experience
- rational thinkingUsing reason and evidence to think through an issue and make a decision.
- conscienceAn inner sense (or 'voice') which communicates what is right or wrong in one's behaviour.
Religious people also have other sources of guidance and help available to them. These might include:
- sacred texts
- founderThe person who is regarded as founding or starting a religion, eg Jesus was the founder of Christianity; the Buddha was the founder of Buddhism. of the faith
- religious principles or rules
- faith community leaders
- religious traditionThe beliefs, teachings and behaviour of a group. It may include scripture, oral teachings, laws and ritual practices.
- other people in the faith community
Insight and inspiration can sometimes come from the beliefs, teachings and practices of other religions and from non-religious sources too.