Functionalist View on the Role and Functions of Religion in Society

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Functionalist View on the Role and Functions of Religion in Society Assess the view that sociological arguments and evidence support the Functionalist view of the role and functions of religion in contemporary society. Functionalists believe that religion is a conservative force, and an institution which adds to the requirements of society. They say it ultimately operates as an agency of socialisation. Durkheim (1912) said that all societies are separated into the profane and sacred and that religion is a combined structure consisting of beliefs and practices which are associated to sacred items. Durkheim also stated that religion is used as a collective conscience used to avoid anomie. Bellah agreed with Durkheim, although related religion to modern society, and civil religion. Malinowski disagreed with Durkheim, saying that religion was a coping strategy to avoid anxiety provoking situations rather than a worship of society. For example, religion can console those facing a traumatic situation such as a death. Stark and Bainbridge also said that religion was a ‘compensator’ which offers a ‘plausibility structure’ for socially destructive circumstances. (E.g. bereavement) Parsons argued that religion is used to promote value consensus in America. He also agreed with Malinowski saying religion alleviates tension and frustration. Berger, who looked at the idea of phenomenology, claimed that religion works as a sacred canopy, and concentrates on the individual. In relation to the development of religion in modern society, Functionalism suggests that the division of labour will turn out to be more complicated and this ... ... middle of paper ... ... Functionalism concludes that religion represents the collective consciousness, which makes social life achievable. Religion also promotes social unity, and brings together the members of society. They also add that religion ultimately helps individuals face up to life by providing them with a feeling of confidence and eagerness. Durkheim has been criticised for his definition of religion, and sociologists have asked, ‘is it possible to have society without religion?’, and ‘if so what maintains social solidarity in society?’ Through looking at sociological arguments such as Marxism and Feminism, I conclude that although these views do share a few of the Functionalist opinions of the role and functions of religion in contemporary society, overall they have different outlooks on religion and its effect on society.

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