LT1 - Functionalist theories on the role/function of religion in society

Question 1

What do functionalists believe is required for social order and social solidarity?

Answer 1

Value consensus (a set of shared values and norms).

Question 2

How does religion have great influence on society?

Answer 2

By being an agent of secondary socialisation.

Question 3

What are the three general things that functionalists believe religion does within societies?

Answer 3

• it is an integrative force that brings together members of society through the creation of a collective conscience (set of shared values, beliefs and traditions).
• It provides aid and comfort in times of personal/national crisis.
• It is a regulatory force, maintaining social control through instilling norms and values. (E.g. The Ten commandments in the Christian belief.

Question 4

What is a value consensus?

Answer 4

a set of shared norms and values.

Question 5

What did Durkheim argue religion did?

Answer 5

Create a collective conscience.

Question 6

How does a collective consciousness affect society?

Answer 6

By promoting social order and uniting citizens in order to form a single moral community.

Question 7

Which sociologist argued that religion encouraged a collective conscience?

Answer 7

Durkheim.

Question 8

Which definition of religion does Durkheim favour?

Answer 8

The inclusivist (broad) definition of religion.

Question 9

What three things does the inclusivist (broad) definition of religious organisations do? (e.g. Football teams)

Answer 9

• Invoke feelings of awe
• Have rituals
• Promote a moral

Question 10

Which group did Durkheim study?

Answer 10

The Aboriginal Australians, he believed that all religions could be found in their simplest form.

Question 11

What are sacred objects?

Answer 11

Items of great power/evoke feelings of awe.

Question 12

What did the totem pole represent?

Answer 12

It acted as a symbol of the clan and society representing its origin and identity.

Question 13

What did worshipping the totem pole mean for the Aboriginal Australians?

Answer 13

By worshipping the totem pole, Durkheim found that they were actually worshipping society, even though they were not aware of this.

Question 14

How does worshipping the sacred totems affect the community?

Answer 14

By worshipping together, everyone understands the community’s norms and values creating social solidarity.

Question 15

What is social solidarity?

Answer 15

Feelings of shared identification and mutual interest.

Question 16

What is a negative aspect of Durkheim’s theory?

Answer 16

Durkheim’s theory explained social integration in small communities; therefore it is difficult to apply it to large scale communities where multiple religions communities may be in conflict.