Marxism On Religion

Question 0

How does religion dull the pain of oppression? 3

Answer 0

Religion justifies social order by keeping a structure
Religion can offer a hope of supernatural intervention
Promises a paradise of external bliss in the after life

Question 1

What was Marxs view of religion?

Answer 1

Opium of the people - religion dulls the exploitive nature of the capitalist society and makes like more bearable

Question 2

How does religion act as a mechanism of social control? 2

Answer 2

It tends to discourage people from changing their situation and therefore sticking with society
Offers an illusion of hope in a hopeless world

Question 3

What evidence and supporting examples are there for the Marxist view? (2) Give named sociologist

Answer 3

Divine Right of kings in medieval Europe

BRUCE:
USA and the New Christian Right support right wing candidates that support a capitalist society

Question 4

What evidence is there against the Marxist view of religion in society? (1)

Answer 4

Religion continued to exist in the communist state USSR

Question 5

What did Oscar Madura say. Give 2 examples.

Answer 5

LIBERATION THESIS - religion is a a revolutionary force

Eg Oscar Romero + ISIS