relgion Flashcards
what is social construction
Social constructs- individual meaning/ not possible to create a single definition
Religion refers to the existence of supernatural beings which have a governing effect on life.
what did Peter worsley say?
Religion is a set of beliefs which in some way refers to and look for validation in a dimension. In a dimension beyond the empirical technical realm
what’s durkheim opinion on religion?
an inclusive/ functional definition related to sacred things, things set apart and forbein
He analyses was largely drawn from studies of the religion which he called totemism
how can we measure religion?
Religion may deal with the metaphysical world, beyond the release of the empirical
Most religion has basic function-
Cosmological- religion explains the universe
moral/ethnic- provides a moral code of behaviour
Psychological- purpose of meaning for the individual
Social control- religion serves to maintain social order
what did durkheim say about functionalism and religion?
Religion is functional as it maintains social solidarity and social order
All societies divide the world into sacred and profane
give a criticism of durkheim opinion on religion
Does religion really worship society
Are his ideas more relevant to pre- literate society
Religion can cause conflict rather than social solidarity
what is Malinowski of religion?
Religion reinforces social norms and values and social solidarity
Helps cope with emotional stress
what did Paisons say about religion?
Religion is part of the cultural system which provides guidelines and standards of behaviour
Can help solve certain problems such as unforeseen events.
give an evaluation of functionalism and religion?
Ignores dysfunctional aspects of religion Maxist argue that religion aids false class consciousness It ignores the oppression of women in religion
