functionalist theory

Question 1

Durkheim’s definition of religion

Answer 1

a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things - that is to say things set apart and forbidden - which unite into one single moral community all those who adhere to them

Question 2

Durkheim’s beliefs

[ CAPITAL WORDS are 3 main functions of religion according to Durkheim ]

Answer 2

• believed in shared norms and values that bind members of society together
• shared beliefs = part of COLLECTIVE CONSCIENCE = collective worship means INTEGRATION
• by showing respect to sacred things = people actually worshipping society = reaffirming commitment to social group
• collective conscience helps maintain SOCIAL SOLIDARITY

Question 3

Problems with Durkheim’s beliefs on religion

Answer 3

1. secondary research
2. definition too broad
3. too conservative
4. ignores religious differences can be a source of conflict and used to justify oppression
5. ignored secularisation
6. ideas only work in a single faith society

Question 4

functions of religion according to functionalists

Answer 4

1. stability and cohesion - binds people
2. social identity - shared religion gives identity and social membership
3. collective conscience - unites people
4. socialisation + social control - represents value system
5. meaning + purpose to people’s lives

Question 5

Malinowski beliefs on religion
[ neo - functionalist ]

Answer 5

• religion helps individual to deal with emotional stress, anxiety and social crisis
• helping individual cope with emotional stress individual = stabilised + less threat to society
• 4 big events = birth , puberty, marriage and death

Question 6

malinowski background

Answer 6

2 yrs living in trobriand islands, overt participation
- agrees with Durkheim thats religion helps promote consensus, social integration
- dosent agree that religion reflects society as a whole
- or that religious worshipping is worshipping society
- she noticed islanders dealt with crisis by turning to religious ritual and people bless the food

Question 7

Parsons beliefs

Answer 7

• agrees with Durkheim that religion has key roles in promoting consensus, social solidarity, stability
• reinforcing in the religious teaching, the wider norms and values of society

Question 8

Bellah’s beliefs
[ In American society ]

Answer 8

• agrees with Durkheim that traditional forms of religion change in the modern industrial societies
• people become more secular and religion can change into faith in society = civil religion