religion and social change

Question 1

MAX WEBER - early capitalism

Answer 1

• against Karl Marx’s view that religion is shaped by the economic base of society
• claimed religion itself could bring about economic change
• early capitalism is evident in countries with capitalism

Question 2

MAX WEBER - the protestant ethic

Answer 2

• Calvinists believed in pre-destination = a precise number of souls will go to heaven
• Calvinists were terrified there would be no place in heaven for them
• Signs an individual had been saved is by actively contributing to their community through work
• Those who led an ascetic (disciplined) life were successful in business – made lots of money to reinvest in their business
• Work ethic needed for their religious beliefs reflects capitalism

Question 3

criticisms of MAX WEBER

Answer 3

• Calvinism was strong in scotland, sweden and norway – capitalism didnt develop here until much later
• Also argued it was technological change, not religious ideas that brought about capitalism

Question 4

STEVE BRUCE – religious influence on organisations (american civil rights movement)

Answer 4

• Martin luther king
• Black clergy were the backbone of this movement
• Supported movement and provided sanctuary
• Prayer meetings provided unity in the face of oppression
• Segregation made illegal in 1964

Question 5

STEVE BRUCE – religious influence on organisations (new christian right movement)

Answer 5

• Protest fundamentalist group - ‘take america back to god’
• Anti-abortion, homosexuality, divorce
• Want creationism taught in schools
• Televangelism – own tv networks aimed at recruiting new members
• Strong links with the republican party