topic 1 Flashcards
defines religion as a belief in a superior or supernatural power above nature and cannot be explained scientifically.
weber
defines religion in terms of the contribution it makes to social integration rather than a belief in god
Durkhiem
shows how for its followers , scientology is a religion whereas several governments have have denied its legal status as a religion and saught to ban it
Aldridge
agrees w/ durkeim that religion promotes solidarity but in his view does it by psychological functions helping them cope with emotional stress: 1) when outcome is important but uncontrollable and uncertain compares this to (lagoon fishing and ocean fishing. 2) at times of life crisies
Malinowski
sees religion as helping individuals to cope with unforseen and uncontrollable events. he identifies two other functions of religion as creating legitimising societies central values and that it is the primary source of meaning
parsons
is interested in how religion unifies society especially a multifaith society like the usa . He argues that civil religo integrates america in ways churches cannot. Americanism involves loyalty to the state and a belief in god. expressed through rituals like pledging allegiance to flag or singing national anthem.
Bellah
Ao3 theres no sharp division between sacred and profane and some clans share the same totems
worsley
describes religion as a spiritual intoxicant doled out to masses by the ruling class to confuse them and keep them in their place.
Lenin
sees exclusion from priesthood is evidence of womens marginalisation
armstrong
criticise feminist explanations that simply equate religion with patriarchy and oppression of women. She argues there are religious forms of feminism which women use to gain greater freedom and respect
woodhead
Hijab is a symbol of liberation to some women allows them to enter the public sphere without them being condemned as immodest
Gilliat-Ray
