1.3 Neo-Marxism Perspective on Religion

Question 1

Neo Marxism?

Answer 1

Religion is unfair to working-class however has functions besides supporting bourgeoisie. Can have a dual-character

Question 2

Maduro Argument

Answer 2

can be used as a revolutionary force to bring about change. WC used religion to bring democracy to Latin America (liberation theology). WC gain relative autonomy through feeling acknowledged by the catholic priests that preached on their behalf. Power of wealthy redistributed from rich to the poor

Question 3

Oscar Romero, the Archbishop of San Salvador

Answer 3

a conservative catholic bishop but concerned about priests in his diocese working alongside the poor, helping them to organise groups and participating in political campaigns.

However he became angered by the oppressive native of El Salvador’s military dictatorship and the repression of the poor.
Romero used his platform to speak out against the government .

He also set varies schemes to help victims .

Question 4

What does it show when Romero was assassinated in 1980?

Answer 4

clear example of religious figures and religious organisations not working hand in hand with the state and the ruling class as a conservative force, but doing quite the opposite.

Question 5

Dual consciousness?

Answer 5

Gramsci argues religion has a dual character by challenging as well as supporting ruling class’ hegemony.

Question 6

Evaluation of Neo-Marxism?

Answer 6

1. Although Archbishop Romero was declared a martyr in 2015. The were still some official condemnations of Liberation Theology in the years.
2. pope was highly critical of what he saw as links bet liberation theology and Marxism and some leading proponents of the position were banned from speaking at catholic events.
3. it argued that Romero and Liberation theologist were acting against the conservative position of their international church.