Functionalist theories of religion

Durkheim - religion is socially constructed

As an agnostic, Durkheim viewed religion as a set of myths and imaginary forces created by humans. However, this did not prevent him from seeing religion as a power for social good in society.

Durkheim - elementary forms

For Durkheim, to understand the main elements of all religions, we must ‘begin by going back to its simplest and most primitive form.’

Durkheim - domains of religion

According to Durkheim, religion is used in two domains:

Sacred - the supernatural, special significance that generates feelings of great respect and awe

Profane - Ordinary, insignificant and every day things

Durkheim - totemism

Durkheim observed the religion of various Arunta groups, and argued that totemism represents religion in its elementary form. A totem was an animal or plant with special, sacred significance to the group, acting as a social glue for all to worship. Collective rituals also affirmed collective effervescence in the community.

Robert Bellah

Civil Religion in America

Bellah introduced a concept that meant ‘Americanism’ is the civil religion of America, due to secularisation. It unites people of all sexes, classes and ethnic backgrounds, through rituals such as holidays and pledging allegiance to the flag.

Malinowski

Psychological functions

When studying the Trobiand islanders, Malinowski discovered religion performed two psychological functions.

Uncertainty - practical activities that cannot be fully predicted, where rituals help control emotions

Life crises - certain events in life such as birth and death can cause stress, so rituals give a sense of closure and comfort

Parsons

Values and meaning

Parsons developed that religious beliefs provide moral guidelines for conduct of behaviour. These guidelines often underpin the legal systems of societies and laws, as well as social attitudes.

Marx

Marx sees religion as ‘the opium of the people’ which means religion acts like a drug, to divert the proletariat’s attention from exploitation, with the idea that they will be rewarded in the afterlife. This also means they are under false class consciousness.