Religion as a conservative force

Question 1

Conservative force

Answer 1

Maintains or seeks to restore traditional values, beliefs and customs

Question 2

Functionalist perspective

Answer 2

Durkheim- It takes on the role of agent of socialisation as well as a form of informal social control
Malinowski- Religion provides explanations, it fulfils a need for emotional security and relieves social stress

Question 3

Marxist perspective

Answer 3

See religion as a ISA that helps to maintain and legitimise the ruling class. Marx suggested that this is achieved by using religion as an ‘opium of the masses’

Question 4

Interpretivist perspective- universe of meaning

Answer 4

Berger- Religion provides a universe of meaning. Set of beliefs that help people to make sense of the world and give life meaning

Question 5

Feminist perspective

Answer 5

Religion is a conservative force because it helps to maintain patriarchy. Showing women in a submissive way in religious texts

Question 6

Religion as a compensator

Answer 6

Stark and Bainbridge- Examine the meaning of religion.
Meeting the needs of the individual when their sense of social order is disrupted