Evaluate the Contribution of Marxist Theories to Our Understanding of the Role and Functions of Religion in the World Today

Evaluate the contribution of Marxist theories to our understanding of the role and functions of religion in the world today (33 marks)

Marxists….

* See society as divided into two classes – one exploits the labour of the other. (proletariat and bourgeoisie)

* Contrary to functionalists who see society as based on harmony and consensus

* In modern capitalist society, capitalist class own the means of production and exploit the working class

* He argues because of the above points, there is always potential for class conflict

* Predicts that working class would ultimately become aware of their exploitation and unit to overthrow capitalism.

* Marxists criticise the functionalist view as they argue religion is a unifying force that strengthens the value consensus and is a feature of all society.

* Marxists see religion as a feature only of class-divided society.

Marx concludes…..considering the previous arguments Marxists believe there will be no need for religion in a classless society and it will eventually disappear entirely.

Religion is an ideology:

* A belief system that distorts people’s perception of reality in ways that serve the interests of the ruling class.

* Whichever class controls the economic production also controls the production and distribution of ideas in society via institutions such as church, education system and the media.

Feminism…

Evidence of patriarchy

* Religious organisations

* Places of worship

* Sacred texts

* Religious laws and customs

Religious Organisations

* Mainly male dominated despite the fact that women tend to participate more in these organisations than men. E.g. Jews and Catholics forbid women becoming priests.

Places of Worship

* Often segregates the sexes and marginalises women. E.g. seating women behind men, often behind a screen.

* Women’s participation may be restricted. E.g. not allowed to preach or read sacred text directly.

Sacred Texts

*...