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R. R. Marett, or Robert Ranulph Marett (1866–1943), was a prominent British anthropologist and folklorist known for his contributions to the study of religion and culture. Marett's work focused on understanding the nature and function of religious beliefs and practices in human societies, drawing upon insights from anthropology, sociology, and psychology.

Marett's scholarship emphasized the importance of studying religion as a universal human phenomenon, present in all cultures and societies throughout history. He rejected the idea of religion as a primitive or irrational phenomenon, instead arguing that religious beliefs and rituals served essential functions in addressing existential concerns, promoting social cohesion, and expressing cultural values.

One of Marett's notable contributions was his concept of "animism," which he proposed as a fundamental stage in the evolution of religious thought. According to Marett, animism represents the earliest form of religious belief, characterized by the attribution of spiritual qualities to natural phenomena and objects. Marett's concept of animism influenced subsequent anthropological theories of religion and laid the groundwork for the study of animistic beliefs and practices in indigenous cultures.

Overall, Marett's work played a significant role in shaping the field of anthropology of religion, highlighting the diversity and complexity of religious phenomena across different cultures and historical periods. His insights continue to inform contemporary discussions on the nature, function, and significance of religion in human societies.