Marxist Theory On Religion

Question 1

What does Marx argue

Answer 1

Maintain r/c ideology

• tool of social control-distorted reality by convincing people’s lives are determined by supernatural power there is nothing they can do to improve their situation as god decided every aspect.maintains false class consciousness
• opium of the masses,less Edna pin of oppression,alienation and exploitation by promising reward in afterlife.
• religion legitimated the power of ruling class(divine right of kings)

Question 2

What does Althusser say

Answer 2

Religion is Part of idealogical state apparatus-creates ideology that indoctrinated w/c to accept system as unfair
-gramsci adds that religion is part of hegemony-persuades the masses that existing system is just and fair so they accept position in society

Question 3

Criticism of Marxist theory

Answer 3

Ignores secularisation-how can ruling class impose ideology if masses don’t attend church?
-religion doesn’t always legitimate power,can provide an impetus for change(civil rights movement MLking)
Marx claims in a communist society there would be no need for religion,however in many communist society’s people are still religious