Religion-Functionalist Views Flashcards
What does Durkheim suggest about the totem?
That the totem is sacred because it is symbolically representative of the group itself
Why is the totem so sacred?
Stands for values of the community and by worshiping it they are effectively worshiping society
What does Durkheim say about the future of religion?
As labour becomes complex, collective conscious will become weaker and so individuals will become less inclined to worship collectively and no longer see society as sacred- Durkheim calls this “Cult Of The Man”
Explain Psychological functions
Malinowski (1954)
Believed that religion helps to manage emotional stresses eg death, that would otherwise undermine social solidarity
What did Tischler et al suggest about religion
Reaffirms the groups beliefs and values(latency)
Physically beings people together(latency)
Transmits a groups cultural heritage through generations(manifest)
Manifest- intended function
Latency- unintended function
Explain Civil Religion
Bellah(1970)
In America there are multiple faiths and cultures but the people practice CR meaning that they are essentially worshiping the nation and putting it above the rest
Eg singing national anthem, pledging allegiance to the flag
Outline why Bellah believed that civil religion was in decline
- People rank their own personal gratitude above others
2. People becoming cynical of social institutions eg government
What does Parson say about religion
Sees religion helping individuals to cope with unforeseen events
What functions does Parson identify about religion
Creates and legitimates society’s central values
Provides answers to ultimate questions
Primary source of meaning eg life
Name some criticisms against the functionalist view of religion
- Too positive; neglects negative aspects eg oppression of women
- Durkheim; only applies to small scale society with a single religion
- No clear distinction between sacred and profane eg a chair can be both
- Functional alternatives; other institutions such as media
Name some positives with the Functionalist view of religion
Helps to see why people turn to religion for support
CR useful for explaining a strong sense of nationalism
Parsons gives reasons for our norms and beliefs
