Assume I believe string theory to be true. Does that mean I'm a religious person? That I follow the religion of String Theory?
Is String Theory a set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe? (As far as i am aware, it is not. String Theory
might explain the nature of the universe, and perhaps could lead to an answer for the cause of the universe, but no science will ever explain the purpose of the universe.)
2. If, however, the requirement is necessary, but not sufficient for something to be a religion, as suggested by your second sentence, but the further characteristics are completely optional: Then please tell me how you would ever tell that something that meets the requirement is not a religion.
Well, since the only time the classification 'Religion' actually
matters is for purposes of law, that's when a bunch of Politicians, and possibly Lawyers and other civil servants, get together and have a debate as to if the set of beliefs qualifies as a Religion or not for tax purposes and soforth.
3. Finally, please give examples of belief systems commonly or scholarly thought of as religions that do not meet any of the other criteria.
I'd need to go find some on the intertubes, and as it is 2am and i am about to go to sleep, that will have to wait until tomorrow. I'm sure there's at least one religion somewhere that lacks superhuman agencies, ritual activities and a moral code.