Beliefs in Society

• What are the three key terms discussed in the section on ideology, science, and religion?

  Ideology, science, and religion
• How did traditional belief systems differ from modern understandings of the world?

  Traditional belief systems relied on supernatural explanations, while modern views often use scientific evidence.
• How did Karl Popper differentiate between science and religion?

  Popper described religion as a closed belief system and science as an open belief system.
• What does it mean for a belief system to be considered "closed" according to Popper?

  A closed belief system does not accept criticism or opportunities for development.
• What is the Marxist view of ideology?

  Marxists see ideology as a set of dominant ideas that justify the power of the ruling class.
• How do feminists relate to the Marxist concept of ideology?

  Feminists argue that patriarchal ideology maintains men's dominance by convincing women that patriarchy is natural.
• What is false consciousness in Marxist theory?

  False consciousness is the idea that the proletariat is misled into believing capitalism is fair and just.
• What role do institutions play in reinforcing ideology according to Marxists?

  Institutions reinforce ideology by creating an illusion that supports the ruling class's interests.
• What is a criticism of the Marxist view of ideology?

  Critics argue that Marxism itself can act as an ideology, as seen in communist countries.
• How do neo-Marxists view the traditional Marxist perspective on ideology?

  Neo-Marxists argue that there are multiple competing ideologies, not just a single dominant one.
• In what way is religion considered an ideology?

  Religion is seen as a set of beliefs that can justify power structures, similar to ideology.
• What are the three main approaches to defining religion in sociology?

  Substantive, functional, and social constructionist
• How did Max Weber define religion?

  Weber defined religion as a belief in a supernatural power that cannot be scientifically explained.
• What is a functional definition of religion?

  A functional definition focuses on the social or psychological functions religion performs for individuals or society.
• What do social constructionists argue about defining religion?

  Social constructionists argue that there are too many types of religion to have a single definition.
• What is the general understanding of science in sociological discourse?

  Science is generally seen as value-free, objective, and based on empirical evidence.
• What is the key question regarding sociology's status as a science?

  The key question is whether sociology can be considered a science like natural sciences.
• What are the main differences between science and religion?

  Science is an open belief system based on evidence, while religion is often a closed belief system based on faith.
• How does Thomas Kuhn's concept of paradigms relate to science?

  Kuhn argues that science operates within paradigms that resist change unless sufficient evidence is presented.
• How can science be seen as less objective than often claimed?

  Science can be influenced by funding sources, which may bias research outcomes.
• How has the relationship between religion and government changed in western democracies?

  Religion is less closely linked to government than it was in the past in western liberal democracies.
• What is the significance of linking different topics in sociology?

  Linking topics helps to understand the broader implications and interconnections within sociological theories.
• What is the role of socialisation in belief systems?

  Socialisation produces shared norms and values that shape belief systems in society.
• What is the Marxist view on how ideology is transmitted in society?

  Marxists argue that various institutions transmit bourgeois ideology, making it common sense.
• What is the functionalist perspective on socialisation and belief systems?

  Functionalists see socialisation as a process that creates widely beneficial shared norms and values.
• What is the focus of the next section in the study material?

  The next section focuses on the relationship between social change and social stability in relation to religion.
• What is the main task of the essay prompt regarding belief in science?

  Evaluate the view that belief in science is a religion.
• What is a common mistake students make when answering the essay prompt?

  Answering in a non-sociological, opinion-heavy way.
• What should students consider before answering the essay question on belief in science?

  • Identify relevant sociology concepts
  • Stay focused on evaluative and analytical aspects
  • Plan the answer before writing
• What are the three sociological perspectives on religion that need to be evaluated?

  • Functionalist
  • Traditional Marxist
  • Feminist
• What are the key sociologists associated with functionalist views on religion?

  • Durkheim
  • Parsons
  • Bellah
  • Malinowski
• What are the key sociologists associated with traditional Marxist views on religion?

  • Marx
  • Althusser
• What is the key feminist perspective on religion?

  • Religion acts as a conservative force maintaining patriarchy.
• According to functionalists, what is the role of religion in society?

  Religion is a conservative force that creates social order and maintains value consensus.
• Who conducted a study of the Arunta tribe to understand the function of religious beliefs?

  Durkheim.
• What did Durkheim argue about the division of objects and activities in religion?

  He argued that society divides them into the sacred and the profane.
• What are the four key functions of religion identified by Durkheim?

  1. Discipline
  2. Cohesion
  3. Vitalising
  4. Euphoric
• What does the function of discipline in religion entail according to Durkheim?

  Religious rituals impose self-discipline, encouraging sociable behavior.
• How does religion promote social cohesion according to Durkheim?

  Worship brings the community together, reaffirming bonds.
• What does the vitalising function of religion maintain according to Durkheim?

  It maintains traditions and keeps values vital across generations.