evaluate the view that religion no longer acts as a 'shared universe of meaning' (20)

introduction

functionalism, feminism + marxism vs postmodernism

paragraph 1 - it does

functionalism

Durkheim - social cohesion

Parsons - socialisation, explanations for the un-explainable and provides solace during times of change to protect social cohesion

paragraph 2 - it doesn’t

secularisation

in postmodern society religion as an explanation has been replaced by science and logic

disenchantment

paragraph 3 - it does

feminsim

feminists would argue that religion does create a shared universe of meaning by spreading the views of the patriarchy

religion as a conservative force

excluding women from roles in religion

paragraph 4 - it doesn’t

eval of feminisms - NAM’s + postmodernism

research has found that women are more likely to join and takes part in NAM’s - involve more choice and individualism

pick ‘n’ mix religion

spiritual supermarket

paragraph 5 - it does

marxism

religion acts to legitimise the suffering of the WC

Lenin - spiritual gin

Marx - opiate of the masses

paragraph 6 - it doesn’t

liberation thesis

Gramsci - religous leaders can use religion to develop an alternative belief to the ruling class

conclusion

in our postmodern society religion no longer acts as a ‘shared universe of meaning’, instead we turn to science and logic for world explanations and pick ‘n’ mix the beliefs we want to use to provide ourselves with solace and comfort eg. NAM’s