Functionalist Beliefs

Question 1

Durkheim

Answer 1

-believes religion main function is to create social stability
-scared symbols- cross for Christianity
-brings communities together through worshipping

Question 2

Malinowski

Answer 2

helps reduce anxiety

Question 3

Parsons

Answer 3

-helps individuals cope with unforeseen events and uncontrollable outcomes
-creates + legitimises society’s central values

Question 4

Bellah

Answer 4

-religion unifies society particularly multi faith society like America
-argues that civil religion integrates society in a way that America’s many different churches and dominations cannot

Question 5

social change

Answer 5

religion can be involved in evolution of society, as the needs of society change
-female victors
-social change can make society more equal or the opposite