Functionalist Theories

Question 1

What are the Durkheim theories of religion ?

Answer 1

• Sacred & Profane - Religions goal is to differentiate between the two

• Totemism - sacred totems reinforce societies solidarity

• Collective conscious - encourages them to believe in the same things / maintains social cohesion

• Cognitive functions - Religion is the origin of concepts like reasoning

Question 2

What are Parsons theories of religion ?

Answer 2

Two functions
1) create & legitimise societal central values
2) primary source of meaning

Question 3

What are Malinowski theories of religion ?

Answer 3

• Psychological functions / Canoe magic

Question 4

What are Bellah theories of religion ?

Answer 4

• Civil religion - belief system that attaches sacred qualities to society e.g The American Dream