Functionalism

Question 1

What is the key idea?

Answer 1

Religion is a vital institution for maintaining social cohesion and solidarity

Question 2

Durkeims 4 functions

Answer 2

1. Determines what is sacred and what is profane
2. Totemism- Arunta Aboriginal tribe
3. Collective conscious
4. Cognitive functions- reasoning, explaining etc

Question 3

Parsons 2 functions

Answer 3

1. creates and legitimises central values

2. answers eternal questions

Question 4

Malinowski- psychological functions

Answer 4

1. when the outcome is important but not certain

2. at times of crisis