Marxist concern 1: religion reinforces false-class consciousness

Question 1

False class consciousness + alienation

Answer 1

Religion reinforces false class consciousness + actively encourages people to embrace poverty + it’s a product of alienation

Question 2

Religion reinforces false class consciousness

Answer 2

Many religious teachings seek to persuade people that poverty + wealth are not the man-made issue, but are in fact an act of god - reinforces false class consciousness, those who are religious then fail to challenge the inequalities which they face, because in their view it would disrespect god - as a result, inequalities exist

Question 3

Examples

Answer 3

Christianity, prayers + hymns have made reference to the idea of god deciding who is rich + poor - all things bright + beautiful

Question 4

Evaluation: religion is declining

Answer 4

If religion is now declining in society, how does it still act as a tool of oppression

Question 5

Evaluation: aware they live in poverty

Answer 5

Some argue that the working class are aware of why they live in poverty but are unable to challenge this due to lack of power

Question 6

Evaluation: true cause of poverty

Answer 6

In today’s society people know the true causes of poverty. God is no longer needed to explain these issues