Nowa Krytyka

The analysis carried out in the article leads to the following conclusions. Namely, it shows that religion is a multidimensional phenomenon in reference to its origin and functions, both in historical and cultural contexts, as well as in functional context referring to the activity of individuals and whole communities. The origin of religion is to be found in primitive dependence of a man on the nature, as well as in unceasing mental development of mankind. It is expressed not only in forming the consciousness, ethical and educational principles, but also in forming community life models and development of esthetical principles. Finally, religion is presented in Marxist paradigm as a strictly materialistic creation in anthropological- -social-cultural aspect. In this context, Marxist philosophy of religion, understood as an idea, not an ideology, still remains inspiring, important and valuable for a contemporary man.