[2.3] Marxism, religion and change Flashcards
What do Marxists, such as Bloch (1959) see religion as having?
A dual character.
Marx sees religion as capable of what?
Humanising a world made inhumane by exploitation.
What does Engels (1895) argue?
Although religion inhibits change, it can also encourage change and challenge the status quo.
What is the principle of hope?
A dream of a better life that contains images of utopia.
What can images of utopia do?
Trick people with promises of rewards in heaven.
What is liberation theology?
A movement from within the Catholic church in Latin America, with a strong commitment to the poor and oppressed.
What are the factors that led to the liberation theology?
- Deepening rural poverty.
- Human rights abuse by military takeovers.
- A commitment towards the poor by priests.
Why was liberation theology a major U-turn for the Catholic church?
It used to encourage fatalistic acceptance of poverty and support wealthy elites.
What does liberation theology emphasise?
Praxis.
What is praxis?
Practical action guided by theory.
What did the priests do?
They helped the poor to establish support groups and helped to fight oppression.
Who became pope in the 1980s, changing the church’s attitude?
Pope John Paul II.
What did Casanova (1994) say that liberation theology did?
Played an important part in resisting state terror and brought about democracy in Latin American countries.
What does Maduro (1982) say about religion?
That it can be a revolutionary force which brings about change.
Why do some Marxists disagree with Maduro (1982) and Lowy (2005)?
They see social change as defined differently.
