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Religious Ideas

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INTRO Some sociological theorists see religion as being conservative in the sense that the role of religion is to reinforce or promote social order. Durkheim advocated religion is social cement Marx suggested religion is a form of social conflict. Nevertheless, there are alternative approaches identifying the way in which religion is a force for social change. However, the debate between religion being conservative and those who see it as force for social change should consider the significance of religious beliefs and institutions in contemporary society.

Durkheim – functionalist

Religion is a conservative force which functions to maintain social order in society Studied religion is primitive societies, an aboriginal Australian tribe specifically Concluded religious ceremonies reinforced social solidarity.
Parsons – functionalist Equally Parsons believed that religion plays an important role in society Religion gives meaning Enables people to make of their situation For example, uncertain events which arise such as death and natural disasters.
Criticisms of functionalists Functionalist claims can be criticised for consensual assumptions as it completely ignores how religion is in fact a source of social conflict. For example the ongoing conflict in Northern Ireland between Catholics and Protestants. Functionalists fail to highlight that religion can be disruptive within society instead of being purely consensual and promoting harmony.
Marx
Although Marx also views religion as conservative, his take on it differs from functionalists. According to Marx, the ruling class uses religion as a form of social control, by imposing capitalist values on the rest of society, also known as ideological control which assumes members of society and the working class are docile and are victims of

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