Beliefs in society

Question 1

Name two Functionalists (beliefs about society)

Answer 1

Durkheim and Parsons (also Malinowski and Bellah)

Question 2

Name two Marxists/Neo Marxists (beliefs about society)

Answer 2

Gramsci and Maduro

Question 3

What is the substantive definition of religion?

Answer 3

To be a religion it must have a belief in God or the supernatural (Exclusivist)

Question 4

What is the functional definition of religion?

Answer 4

To be a religion it must have a social or psychological function for its believers or society

Question 5

What did Durkheim find out about religion? (aboriginals)

Answer 5

Durkheim did a study of the Arunta aboriginal tribes in Australia. He found that religion has social functions for its members.

Question 6

Explain the term “sacred and profane”

Answer 6

Durkheim found tribes treated most things as ordinary (profane) but some things were set apart as forbidden and inspire awe (Sacred).

Question 7

What did Durkheim say sacred things represent? (tribes)

Answer 7

Durkheim argued that these sacred things represent something of great power and in his view this can only be society. So worshiping these things is worshiping society even if the tribes weren’t aware.

Question 8

Explain Bellah’s theory of religion.

Answer 8

Some religions are civil (non-religious) and are national religions which unite a nation of people under collective norms and values. E.g the USA and “God bless America” example.

Question 9

Explain collective consciousness in religion

Answer 9

Taking part in rituals reaffirms our commitment to shared ideas, goals and aims and allows us to work as a group, society couldn’t survive without it. Attending rituals allows us to bond with others and strengthens social solidarity.

Question 10

Explain Parsons theory of religion

Answer 10

Religion sacralises (makes sacred) norms and values, meaning individuals accept societies goals as their own .
Religion is also the primary source of meaning for people in society. It provides answers to those unanswered questions about the world and humanity.

Question 11

Explain Malinowski’s theory of religion

Answer 11

Religion performs a social function by providing psychological support during times of emotional stress that might otherwise threaten social life. Eng life crisis’s like birth, marriage and death.