Functionalist Theories of Religion
- Created by: hannahmoore
- Created on: 28-01-15 12:38
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- Functionalism
- Durkheim
- Sacred and Profane
- Religion is the distinction between sacred and profane objects
- Study of totemism shows rituals involving a symbol reinforcing solidarity
- Groups were actually worshipping society
- Collective Conscience
- Sacred symbols represent society
- Religion reinforces shared norms and values
- Cognitive Functions
- Religion provides the basis for thinking and reasoning by outlining categories
- Sacred and Profane
- Malinowski
- Psychological Functions
- Religion helps cope with emotional stress
- When an outcome is uncontrollable therefore uncertain
- At times of life crisis e.g. birth, death
- Parsons
- Values and meaing
- Legitimises society's central values
- Religion is primary source of meaning
- Religion answers the ultimate questions
- Bellah
- Civil religion
- Societies that attach religion with the country itself
- USA e.g. pledge of allegiance, national anthem
- Religion is associated with being a true American
- Creates "American God"
- Durkheim
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