Religion as a force for Social Change

• What are the four ways religious organizations contribute to social change according to Bruce?

  Taking the moral high ground, channelling dissent, acting as an honest broker, mobilizing public opinion
• How did the black clergy demonstrate the moral high ground in the context of racial segregation?

  They highlighted the hypocrisy of white clergy who preached “love thy neighbour” but supported segregation
• In what way does religion provide channels to express political dissent?

  Religion offers a platform for individuals to voice their opposition to political issues
• Why are churches considered honest brokers in conflicts?

  They are respected by both sides and stand above mere politics
• How did black churches in the South mobilize public opinion?

  They campaigned for support across the entire USA
• According to Gramsci, how can religious beliefs lead to social change?

  They can empower the oppressed working class to challenge ruling class ideology
• What does Maduro argue about religion in societies where it is dominant?

  Religion can be a force for social change as the oppressed take their discontent to the church
• What is liberation theology?

  A revolutionary movement combining Christianity with Marxism to free the poor from oppression
• What was the role of the church in the 1979 revolution in Nicaragua?

  The church worked with the people to overthrow the right-wing government
• What criticism is made against Neo-Marxists regarding religion's role in social change?

  Pope John Paul II's conservative stance suggests religion may not be a force for change
• Who was John Ball and what was his role in the Peasants Revolt?

  He was a priest who claimed that God gave land to all men equally and encouraged peasants to rise up
• How did churches contribute to the civil rights movement in the USA during the 1960s?

  They played an important role in protests led by figures like Martin Luther King
• What does Nelson argue about the relationship between religion and social change?

  He argues that religious beliefs have historically encouraged revolution and social change
• What are the four ways religious organizations contribute to social change according to Bruce?

  1. Taking the moral high ground
  2. Channelling dissent
  3. Acting as an honest broker
  4. Mobilizing public opinion
• How does liberation theology combine Christianity and Marxism?

  • It advocates for the poor's liberation from oppression
  • It encourages Christians to fight against capitalist exploitation
  • It was developed by Latin American priests in the 1950s
• What are the criticisms of Neo-Marxists regarding religion's role in social change?

  • Pope John Paul II's conservative leadership
  • Encouragement to reject social and technological development
  • Suggests religion may not always promote change
• What historical examples does Nelson provide to illustrate religion's role in social change?

  • John Ball's leadership in the Peasants Revolt (1381)
  • Churches' involvement in the civil rights movement (1960s)