Functionalist Views on Beliefs

• What do functionalists argue about religion?

  It is a conservative force with positive functions
• How does religion contribute to social order according to functionalists?

  By maintaining the value consensus
• Who conducted a study of the Arunta tribe?

  Durkheim
• What was the purpose of Durkheim's study of the Arunta?

  To establish the function of their beliefs and ceremonies
• What did Durkheim consider the Arunta's religion to be?

  A very primitive religion
• How did Durkheim categorize objects and activities in religion?

  Into sacred and profane
• What are considered sacred in the religion Durkheim studied?

  Various totems
• What are the four key functions of religion identified by Durkheim?

  1. Discipline: Imposes self-discipline
  2. Cohesion: Brings community together
  3. Vitalising: Maintains traditions and values
  4. Euphoric: Provides a sense of belonging
• What does the discipline function of religion encourage?

  Individuals to behave sociably
• How does religion promote social cohesion according to Durkheim?

  By bringing the community together through worship
• What does the vitalising function of religion ensure?

  Traditions and values are kept vital
• What does the euphoric function of religion remind individuals of?

  Their place in something much bigger
• What did Durkheim conclude about collective worship?

  People worship society itself
• Who developed the concept of Civil Religion in the 1960s?

  Bellah
• What does Bellah argue about modern secular states?

  People worship society without the supernatural
• What symbols are associated with Americanism as a civil religion?

  The flag and national anthem
• How does Americanism function similarly to traditional religion?

  Promotes social cohesion and stability
• What does Talcott Parsons argue about religion's role in society?

  It integrates people into the value consensus
• What ultimate questions does religion answer according to Parsons?

  Questions beyond the scope of science
• What did Malinowski study?

  The religious practices of the Trobriand islanders
• When did the Trobriand islanders practice religious ceremonies?

  When fishing in dangerous waters
• What psychological function does religion serve according to Malinowski?

  Helps individuals deal with anxiety
• What contemporary events are equivalent to dangerous fishing expeditions?

  Births and deaths
• What are the criticisms of functionalist views of religion?

  • Misunderstanding of sacred and profane
  • Outdated theories for modern society
  • Lack of consensus in developed societies
  • Religion as a source of conflict
• What did P. Worsley criticize about Durkheim's study?

  Misunderstanding aspects of the religion
• Why are functionalist theories considered outdated?

  They do not reflect modern religious diversity
• What was unique about Malinowski's study method?

  It was a participant observation
• What is a limitation of Malinowski's study from a positivist perspective?

  Conclusions cannot be generalized
• Why might describing "Americanism" as a religion be controversial?

  It stretches the definition of religion
• How does "Americanism" incorporate traditional religious beliefs?

  Through patriotic expressions like "God Bless America!"
• What is a key element that some argue is necessary for something to be considered a religion?

  A supernatural or divine element