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This article describes the major belief systems of the world. Each of these has a worldview, a theology, a number of different branches, and a cultural background. The cultural background may at times be more important than the theology. For example, Christianity and Islam, due to both being monotheistic Abrahamic religions, appear similar, but their culture and history is very different.

The five belief systems discussed, in approximate order of appearance, are Tribal religion, Hinduism, East Asian religion, Christianity, Islam, and Materialism.

== Tribal religions ==
Tribal religions can be found around the world, and are the oldest human form of religion. They developed in small, primitive societies, lacking industrialization or scientific knowledge, and without a writing system. Although they differ on certain aspects of belief, being variously monotheistic (such as the religion of the Maasai), polytheistic (as was often the case in the Middle East), pantheistic (certain Native American traditions), or lacking the concept of deity altogether (as among Aboriginal Australians), they share many features. Tribal religions generally develop some form of ancestor worship, a creation myth, and the idea of a spirit or soul within nonhuman objects as well as humans.

== Hinduism ==
Hinduism is based in the Vedas, which developed in the 2nd millennium BC, but it has diverged significantly from the religion of that time. Aspects that have always been prevalent include rituals performed to various deities, and the caste system. Concepts of reincarnation, karma, moksha, and asceticism are also very common in the many schools of Hinduism. Jainism and many forms of Buddhism, and to some extent, Sikhism as well, can be described as within the umbrella of Hinduism. While pantheistic, monotheistic, and atheistic schools exist, Hinduism, among the major belief systems today, is the most predisposed to the extravagant worship of numerous deities and idols.

== East Asian religion ==
East Asian religion is the amalgamation of many philosophies and beliefs, including Confucianism, Daoism, animism, and Zen Buddhism, among which have developed distinct cultural practices including Shinto. The expansion of Buddhism from India to China diversified the already extensive schools of thought present, but it has been modified in its focus to better fit East Asian cultural values. Some aspects include filial piety, a sense of honor and shame, morality, and concepts of patience and simplicity. These belief systems have helped advance education and culture throughout their regions. Although many direct worship towards deities and immortals, there are few religious institutions that prescribe any practices. The Chinese communist government has caused religious practices to decline in some ways but this has not necessarily changed the underlying values.

== Christianity ==
Christianity has a more well-defined belief system than others, mostly based on the Bible. It was influenced by Judaism, but also Greek philosophies. Concepts of sin, faith, love, and redemption are central, as well as correct belief rather than correct actions. Also notable are the commands to spread Christianity and all nations, and opposition to discrimination based on ethnic origin. It helped bring about a society based on guilt rather than shame or fear. The expansion of Christianity into Europe helped to reduce the martial nature of many societies and establish greater order. Christendom became associated with Europe and has been at times used to justify absolute monarchy, feudalism, and colonialism. In modern times Christianity has been associated with democracy and education, particularly in wealthier countries.

== Islam ==
Islam developed in a region that had already been exposed to Christianity and Judaism, but was culturally different because of the nomadic nature of many of its people. In the Arabian herding societies, polygamy was common and society was structured along kinship groups, with warfare prevalent. Islam differed from Christianity by its concept that God was only one and Muhammad was only a human, if the greatest of humans. Islam values almsgiving and often relatively strict gender roles, but considers all people and nations to be equal before God. It is believed that God values people based on their deeds, and rewards them in Heaven.

== Materialism ==
Materialism is a relatively recent, atheistic school of thought connected with Marxism and similar economic or political ideologies. The essential aspect is evaluating all historical and modern events based upon material conditions. It has become common among leftists in many countries, as well as intellectuals in the social scientists. Materialists usually have a negative view of religion, believing that it is controlled by the ruling class as a means of oppression.