social action theory of religion

Question 1

Berger

Answer 1

• universe of meaning
• plausibility structure
• sacred canopy

Question 2

the universe of meaning

Answer 2

answers to all questions-most com from science but religion still needed to answer some of them like what happens when die

Question 3

plausibility structure

Answer 3

anything in society that makes religion believable like Holy Book, or religious events-Christmas. religion provides answers science cant

Question 4

what is the sacred canopy

Answer 4

shelter and protection against events we cannot understand- made up of universe of meaning, plausibility structure and nomos

Question 5

nomos

Answer 5

religion provides meaning people need in society

Question 6

Weber

Answer 6

believes religious ideas exist independently of other influences. and role of religion was to meet social and psychological needs.

Question 7

what is social and psychological needs of religion

Answer 7

where justiify good and bad fortunes as a result of divine, rather than hard work/luck. religion makes feel more secure and hopeful + makes world meaningful and hopeful

Question 8

what are theodicies

Answer 8

religious explanation for something that is happening eg focus on why bad things happen eg illness. affluent adopt ‘theodicies of good fortune’ like becoming millionaire is because rewarded for hard work by God

Question 9

3 religious authority forms for social change

Answer 9

1. charismatic
2. traditional
3. legal-rational

Question 10

which religious authority is most likely to cause social change + example?

Answer 10

charismatic- people obey these because of their personal qualities. Jesus

Question 11

what does Weber say about society becoming industrialised and rational?

Answer 11

scientific ideas would destroy traditional and irrational sources of authority + belief such as religion

Question 12

rationalisation

Answer 12

explanations supported by empirical evidence. our way of interpreting world would become less enchanted and sacred- disenchantment

Question 13

disenchantment

Answer 13

loss of belief in magic

Question 14

how does social action differ to structural approaches?

Answer 14

• religion can lead to dramatic change- structural believes religion prevents it
• says science and religion can co-exist, Berger acknowledges science in religion