Theories Of Religion

Question 1

Functionalist - Durkheim

Answer 1

Durkheim- religion maintains value consensus and social solidarity

Question 2

Functionalist- sacred and profane

Answer 2

Key features of religion
Sacred- things set apart- forbidden and inspire feelings of fear and wonder
Profane- ordinary things with no special significance
Sacred things - create powerful feelings as they are symbols of power
Rituals- unite members of society, worshipping society uniting people into a community.

Question 3

Totemism

Answer 3

Arunta tribe
Worshiping a totem, worshipping the values of society. Worshipping clans emblem, reinforcing social solidarity

Question 4

Collective conscience

Answer 4

Shared norms and values, without these society would disintegrate. Individuals are apart of something greater, see the power of society

Question 5

Cognitive functions

Answer 5

Durkheim- answers difficult questions.

Question 6

Malinowski- psychological functions

Answer 6

Help people cope with emotional stress
When outcome is uncontrollable and uncertain
At times of life crisis
Example- lagoon fishers

Question 7

Parsons- values and meanings

Answer 7

Creates and legitimates norms and values by making them sacred
Provides a source of meaning, answers questions about life

Question 8

Bella- civil religion

Answer 8

Faith in the American way of life, rituals and symbols, eg allegiance to the flag. Binds American individuals together.

Question 9

MARXISM

Question 10

Religion - ideology (Marxism)

Answer 10

Distorts perceptions of reality, legitimates suffering of the poor, false consciousness, spiritual gin, mystical fog. Legitimates unequal power structure by making it seem divinely ordained.

Question 11

Religion and alienation (Marxism)

Answer 11

Product of alienation, losing control. Do not own what they produce. Religion is he opium of the people, dulls the pain of exploitation and distract attention

Question 12

FEMINIST

Question 13

Patriarchy and women’s subordination in religion

Answer 13

Religious organisations- male dominated, forbid women from becoming priests
Places of worship - segregate
Sacred texts- male gods and prophets- vulnerable women \
Religious laws and customs- women have fewer rights

Question 14

Religious feminism

Answer 14

Women can use religion to feel liberated.
Eg a hijab is a symbol of liberation that enables a women to enter the public sphere.
Use religion to gain status and respect for roles within the home and family
Becoming more equal eg Church of England- female priests