Religion and Beliefs: Marxism Revision cards for AQA A2 Sociology. Marxist views on religion and beliefs. 4.0 / 5 based on 2 ratings ? SociologyReligion and beliefsA2/A-levelAQA Created by: PheebieCreated on: 29-10-12 15:48 Karl Marx "Religion is the opium of the people" Religion is an illusion, acting to opiate the pain of oppression. It does not bring true happiness, it only makes life bearable. Most religious movements originate in working classes because of their oppression. It is a tool of the ruling class and produces a false class conciousness. FALSE CLASS CONCIOUSNESS: Diverts peoples attention from real source of problems and helps to maintain ruling class power, stops a revolution. 1 of 4 Marx & Engles Religion dulls the pain of oppression by... Promising eternal bliss in life after death. "It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich man to get into heaven." - Bible Virtue of suffering. Offers hope of supernatural intervention. Justify's social order- God made and ordained social structure. Poverty is punishment for sins. 2 of 4 Religion and Social Class Ruling class- Adopt religious beliefs to justify their position tot hem selves and others. Christian slave owners use the bible "slaves obey your owners." Examples- Indian Caste system. (Brahman --> Untouchables) Slavery System. Poverty. 3 of 4 Evaluation of Marxism ADVANTAGES: People still look to religion as a source of hope. More relevant in LEDC's More relevant in Karl Marx's time Explains brain washing acts of terrorism e.g. 9/11 DISADVANTAGES: Even in socialist societies- religion is still prominent e.g. Underground religions in China. TURNER- There is no evidence for peasant going to church in medieval times (many may not have gone for religion but the social aspect.) HAMILTON- Religion sometimes acts as an ideological force and helps bring about change. 4 of 4
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