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What are Parson’s functions of religion?
Parsons suggested that religion performs three functions for society and its individuals
Provides moral guidelines and helps establish values in society
Helps individuals adjust to unpredictable changes in their lives and society
Provides a sense of meaning and purpose for individuals
What are moral guidlines?
The role of religion is to socialise individuals into the moral values of society
This is achieved through ministers providing guidance from religious texts and ceremonies
Religious institutions act as an agency of socialisation, and this can be reinforced through education
What is adapting to change?
Religion helps to unite people in times of uncertainty according to Parsons
Religious institutions can provide solace for those grieving or a focal point to reaffirm their bonds in times of tragedy
Performs psychological functions for individuals and stabilizes society by allowing periods of remembrance
What is purpose and meaning?
Religion provides meaning to individuals by promoting the ideas of faith in the will of deities
Questioning events that occur can lead to the destabilisation of society and social bonds - religion A reaffirms those bonds by providing answers to these questions
Provides promise of rewards for maintaining their faith in response to adversity
What is the evaluation of Parson’s?
Science is increasingly providing answers to the questions that individuals pose - leading to a loss of faith
Great diversity of religious experiences in contemporary society changes the values of society - some values are outdated
Ignores the negative aspects of religion, such as conflict between different religions
