Explanations for secularism

Question 1

What is rationalisation?

Answer 1

Rationalisation refers to the process of how rational ways of thinking and acting replace religious ones.

Question 2

How has western society undergone a process of rationalisation?

Answer 2

Religious thinking and explanations for events have been undermined and replaced by scientific explanations leading to secularisation.

Question 3

What is Weber’s view on how rationalisation?

Answer 3

According to Weber:

• the protestant reformation started the process of rationalisation in the 1500s
• before this, the catholic ‘enchanted’ worldview dominated God and other spiritual forces were believed to be present and active in the events on earth
• it was believed that humans could influence this through prayers and charms.

Question 4

What is structural differentiation according to Parson?

Answer 4

This is the development of specialised instituitions to carry out functions previously met by a single instituition.
-This leads to the disengagement of religion, its functions has been transferred to other instituition

Question 5

What functions has religion lost over the past centuries?

Answer 5

The church used to :

• provide education -replaced now by schools
• take care of the sick-replaced by NHS

Question 6

What is an example of how the religion has to conform to the requirements of the secular?

Answer 6

-teachers in UK faith schools must have qualifications that are recognised by the state and undergo ofsted inspection.

Question 7

What are the evaluations of the explanations for secularism?

Answer 7

-Disengagement is overstated, religion still has a huge influence on society e.g. legal system demonstrated elements of religion-people swear on the bible.