theories of religion Flashcards
1
Q
how do feminists view religion
A
- patriarchal
- reflects and perpetuates patriarchy
- tool that men use to justify the oppression of women
2
Q
how does religion perpetuate patriarchy
A
- the subordinate roles of women
- marginalisation of women
- religious laws
3
Q
how is christianity patriarchal
A
- god is male, only men can become priests, bible is only written by men
4
Q
how is islam patriarchal
A
- mohammed was male
- men make all legal judgements
- menstruating women cant touch the quran
5
Q
how is hinduism patriarchal
A
- only mean become brahmin priests
- women cant approach family shrines when pregnant or menstruating
6
Q
limitations of feminist view of religion
A
- not all religions are patriarchal and oppressive (quakers are equal)
- some Muslim women claim that wearing the hijab is liberating
- ethnocentric
- ignore positive roles women play in religion (greek mythology)
7
Q
why might feminists see religion as a conservative force
A
- maintains the status quo ( patriarchal power)
- prevents women from rebelling
8
Q
what does functionalism believe about religion
A
- mainly a conservative force, promoting social harmony through reinforcing the value consensus
- religion fills functional prerequisites (e.g common values)
9
Q
what does bruce think about religion
A
- cultural defense – religion acts as a focal point for the defence of community identity
- cultural transition – groups (ME) move to a different country or culture with religion providing identity and support
10
Q
what are the functionalist functions of religion
A
- socialisation – value consensus, moral codes
- social integration and solidarity
- preventing anomie
- dealing with life changing events
11
Q
how does religion maintain social integration and solidarity
A
- collective worship integrates society by letting members express shared values
- strengthens group unity and social solidarity
- restrains deviant behaviour
- develops the collective conscience
12
Q
how does religion prevent anomie
A
- there is no state of confusion where there is no normal
13
Q
what does durkheim believe about religion
A
- religious institutions play a central part in creating and maintaining the value consensus
- religioun binds people together like social glue
- all societies distinguish between sacred and profane objects
14
Q
what are sacred and profane objects
A
- sacred – objects, rituals and people which are regarded as being special
- profane – objects, activities and people that are ordinary
15
Q
what does malinowski believe
A
- religion fulfils a need for emotional security and relieves situations of emotional stress which threaten social stability and solidarity
