Sociology - Beliefs

These flashcards cover essential concepts from 'Beliefs in Society' as per A Level Sociology, including definitions, perspectives, and key theories related to the role of religion in societal structures.

What are the four areas that AQA specifies for the topic of Beliefs in Society?

1. Ideology, science and religion; 2. Social change and stability; 3. Religious organizations; 4. Religion's significance in the contemporary world.

How does the AQA define 'beliefs in society'?

Beliefs in society cover various areas including ideology, science, religion, social change, and the role of religious organizations.

What is religion according to the lecture notes?

Religion is defined functionally as a system of beliefs and practices addressing ultimate human problems.

What are the two approaches to defining religion?

Functional definitions focus on functions religion serves, while substantive definitions focus on its content.

What is the main criticism of functional definitions of religion?

They are too inclusive and can classify non-religious systems like communism or nationalism as religions.

What is a potential issue with substantive definitions of religion?

They may be too exclusive, excluding belief systems like Buddhism that do not center on a deity.

According to Yinger, how is religion defined functionally?

As a system of beliefs and practices by which people struggle with life's ultimate problems.

What does Emile Durkheim argue about the nature of religion?

Durkheim sees religion as a way of marking off the sacred from the profane, and as a reflection of societal ideals.

How does Max Weber relate Protestantism to capitalism?

He argues that Protestant ethics promoted individualism and work ethics that laid the groundwork for modern capitalism.

What is the Functionalist perspective on religion according to Malinowski?

Religion serves to help individuals deal with life crises such as death, providing comfort and cohesion.

How does Parsons contribute to the Functionalist perspective on religion?

Parsons argues that religion maintains social order and value consensus within society.

What is the Marxist view of religion?

Marx views religion as a tool for creating false consciousness and maintaining the power of the bourgeoisie.

How do feminists perceive religion's impact on women?

Feminists argue that religion often perpetuates patriarchy and can be a source of oppression for women.

What argument do Neo-Marxists present regarding religion?

Neo-Marxists argue that religion can also be a force for social change, providing a means for resistance against oppression.

What is the significance of the New Age Movement?

The New Age Movement represents a shift to individual spirituality and eclectic religious practices.

What statistics indicate the relationship between age and religious belief?

Older individuals tend to report higher levels of religiosity compared to younger generations.

How does secularization affect religion in society?

Secularization describes the process where religion loses its social significance and influence in public life.

What is the concept of civil religion according to Robert Bellah?

Civil religion refers to a set of beliefs and practices that provide a unifying identity within a society, often without a specific deity.

What is fundamentalism in relation to religion?

Fundamentalism refers to strict adherence to specific theological doctrines, often in reaction to modernity and secularization.

How does globalisation relate to the spread of religions?

Globalisation can facilitate the spread of various religious beliefs, potentially increasing pluralism.

What is meant by the term 'prosperity gospel'?

Prosperity gospel is a belief that faithfulness to God can lead to financial success and personal well-being.

According to the lecture, why might ethnic minorities be more religious?

Cultural transition theory suggests that faith helps minorities adapt to new conditions while preserving their identity.

What are some arguments for and against the view that religion prevents social change?

Functionalists argue it preserves social order, while some religious movements have historically supported change.

How do David Lyon's views on postmodernity and religion differ?

Lyon believes religion is relocating to the 'sphere of consumption' rather than declining.

What role does secularisation play in the decline of religious beliefs?

Secularisation results in a decrease in religious authority and individual belief systems.

How do the definitions of religious organizations fall into categories?

Religious organizations can be categorized as churches, denominations, sects, and cults based on size, belief systems, and structure.

What is the difference between 'closed' and 'open' belief systems according to the lecture?

Open belief systems allow for criticism and testing, while closed belief systems reject scrutiny and maintain absolute truths.

What evidence suggests that religion is significant in the lives of ethnic minorities?

Higher attendance and belief rates in religious practices among ethnic minorities compared to white Britons.

Why might women be more religious than men?

Cultural role theory suggests traditional female roles result in greater involvement in religious practices.

According to the 2011 UK census, what percentage of the population identified as Christian?

Approximately 59% of the UK population identified as Christian.

What is Rationalization in the context of secularization?

Rationalization refers to the societal shift towards logical, scientific reasoning over religious explanations.

What are the characteristics of world rejecting new religious movements?

They criticize mainstream society, demand high commitment, and may act as total institutions for their members.

What is the role of religion in coping with social change according to functionalists?

Religion helps provide comfort during crises and maintains social stability.

What indicates that the new Age Movement is growing?

The rise in popularity of various unconventional spiritual practices and the emphasis on individual choice in spirituality.

How does the Marxist perspective view the function of religion in society?

As a means to maintain social inequality and justify exploitation by the ruling classes.

How do postmodern views on religion differ from traditional perspectives?

Postmodern views suggest religions are diverse and adaptive rather than monolithic and static.

What did the Pew study reveal about religious affiliation among women and men in the UK?

It showed women are more likely to identify with a faith group than men.

What challenges exist for measuring secularization's impact?

It involves subjective interpretations of personal belief and the complexity of defining religious significance.

What is the significance of ritual in the function of religion?

Rituals help to reinforce social norms and provide collective identity.

What evidence supports the idea that ethnic minorities see religion as central to their identity?

Many ethnic minorities rank religion equally or higher than family as a marker of their identity.

How does the concept of detraditionalization relate to the New Age Movement?

Detraditionalization reflects the shift away from established religious practices towards individual spiritual exploration.

What could account for variations in church attendance across social classes?

Access to education and socioeconomic status may influence church participation.

What did Armstrong argue regarding modern Islam?

She asserts there is no inherent incompatibility with the West, but sees political and economic factors as the main causes of tension.

What is secularization theory's view on the state of religion in modern societies?

It posits that as societies modernize, the significance of religion diminishes.