Neo-Marxist Theory Of religion

Question 1

What do Neo-marxists believe about religion thats different to Marxist?

Answer 1

• They believe that every now and then religion surprises us and takes the side of the poor and oppressed against the powerful

Question 2

How does Engels say religion can bring about social change?

Answer 2

• Rel leaders are more likely to recognise exploitation,opression and equality due to there education
  -Few leaders have attempted to prevent mass participation in religion
  -Leaders aren’t so easily repressed as they have a sacred place in society so aren’t easily targeted for assassination
  Therefore the active role may be played by some religions in effecting revolutionary change

Question 3

What did Gramasci believe about the superstructure?

Answer 3

• Influential in rejecting the view that the superstructure was dependent on the economic infrastructure and he saw it as more autonomous and independent as it could produce ‘ideas’ that were not always in tune with the ruling class

Question 4

What did Gramsci argue about different periods?

Answer 4

At different historical periods popular forms of religion had emerged that expressed and supported the interest of the oppressed classes

• So religious beliefs and practices could develop and be popularised by w/c intellectuals to challenge ruling class ideology
• Could be used to develop a hegemonic consciousness that emphasises resistance to oppression

Question 5

What supporting evidence is there for Neo Marxists?

Answer 5

• Martin Luther King were at forefront of civil rights movement - Non violent demonstrations were important is dismantling,politcal rights
• Catholic church in poland plays a key role in the collapse of communism