Parsons: Values and Meaning

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

Moral Guidelines:

• 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

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

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

Evaluations:

• 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• Great diversity of religious experiences in contemporary society changes the values of society - some values are outdated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