Theories of Religion

Question 1

Definitions of religion

Substantive

Answer 1

The belief in a God

Question 2

Definition of religion

Functional

Answer 2

Religion plays specific Social function for Society (going to church)

Question 3

definitions of religion

constructionISTS

Question 4

functionalists theories of religion

DURKHIEM

Answer 4

study of Arunta tribe: Worship totem poles. Create feeling of social solidarity

and Collective conscience

Question 5

functional theories of religion

MALINOWSKI

Answer 5

Psychological function: promotes Social solidarity-lagoon fishing and … times of life crisis

Question 6

PARSON

Question 7

Civil Religion

Answer 7

BELLAH-Saw religion as a way to unify Society

Question 8

Evaluation of functional view of religion.

Answer 8

1. Neglets negative aspect of . religion like opression
2. ignores religion as source of conflict

Question 9

Marxists theories of religion.

Religion as ideology

Answer 9

Marx-R Operates as i ideological weapon to legitimate Suffering of the proletariat

misleads the poor into thinking I that their Suffering is Virtuous

Question 10

MARXISM

LENIN

Answer 10

\ ‘Spiritual gin’ - intoxicates people and obscures reality

Question 11

MARXISM

Alienation

Answer 11

‘Opium of the people’ , Dull the pain of LC

Question 12

MARXISM

Evaluation of Marxism

Answer 12

Ignores positive functions of religion Sven as psycological adjustment to misfortune

Question 13

Feminism theories of religion

Evidence of patrachy

Answer 13

• male - dominated
• place of worship-segregation
  *

Question 14

FEMinism

ARMSTRONG

Answer 14

Earlier religion placed women at the Centre however development of monotheism saw Single Patriachal figure