Download Theories of Religion

A2-Level Sociology
SCLY3: Beliefs in Society
Theories of Religion
Learning Objectives:
 To understand the Functionalist and Marxist perspectives of religion and
be able to explain this by using Sociologists.
 To be able to evaluate the theories and come to conclusions about the
theoretical perspectives Functionalism and Marxism hold about religion.
Task: Mind map the functions religion can provide to the individual and to
society.
Functions of
Religion
Functionalism
Functionalists see religion in a __________________ way.
Functionalists see religion too:

Durkheim
Durkheim argues that societies divided the world up into two groups:
Sacred
Profane
Totemism
Studied Australian aboriginal societies and saw their religion to be the most
basic, Durkheim called this Totemism. Aboriginal society divides up into clans;
these are similar to large extended families.
Each clan has a totem; a totem is a representative symbol. Durkheim claimed
that the totem represents society and God thus coming to the conclusion by
worshipping God people are also worshipping society therefore society is the
real object key to religious worship.
A totem is used to worship as an individual finds it easier to direct their
respect towards as a symbol as worshipping a clan could be a difficult thing to
do.
A2-Level Sociology
SCLY3: Beliefs in Society
Durkheim saw that shared values and moral beliefs are necessary in order for
society to function properly, these shared values and moral beliefs make up
the collective conscience.
Durkheim also emphasised how collective worship was important as it
strengthens society and gives society members a chance to bond and talk.
Malinowski
Malinowski looked at how religion can help us deal with issues that cause
emotional stress and tension, for example births and deaths.
Parsons
Parsons saw religion to be the primary source of meaning for members of
society. Religion legitimises ________ ____________ and promotes social
solidarity and stabilisation.
Religion provides core _________ and __________, by religion promoting
these it is also promoting social solidarity.
Religion provides answers 
Now, evaluate the Functionalist theory identifying its strengths and
weaknesses.
Strengths
Weaknesses
A2-Level Sociology
SCLY3: Beliefs in Society
Marxism
‘Religion is the opium of the people’ – this is a quote from Karl Marx.
Marx believes religion provide eternal bliss to individuals, it offers
supernatural intervention and justifies social inequality.
Religion can justify inequality in some of the following ways:
 Provides the idea of an afterlife which believers can then look forward
too;
 God decided on our positions in our society. (False Consciousness)
Marx sees religion to be an agency of social control.
Religion can lead the oppressed class into a false state of consciousness; it
blinds them of their situation and often God is used to legitimise why they are
in the position they are. This also helps to maintain order in society and
prevent a proletariat revolt.
An example showing how religious belief justifies inequality can be seen in
Hinduism, the caste system in traditional India was justified by religion and
religious beliefs.
A2-Level Sociology
SCLY3: Beliefs in Society
Religion and Social Control
Compensation
Heavenly
Rewards
Now, evaluate the Marxist theory identifying its strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths
Weaknesses