Dual Force

• What is the dual character of religion according to Neo-Marxist Bloch?

  Force for social change and conservative force
• How do Neo-Marxists view religion's role in society?

  As an ideological force maintaining false consciousness
• What did Bloch argue about the images of hope in religion?

  They can deceive and inspire social change
• What is Liberation Theology (LT)?

  A movement in the Catholic Church for the poor
• How did Liberation Theology differ from traditional Catholicism?

  It emphasized practical action for social change
• What role did priests play in Liberation Theology?

  Helped establish support groups for the poor
• What historical context led to the emergence of Liberation Theology?

  Growth of rural poverty and human rights abuses
• What did Father Camillo Torres do for the poor?

  Developed literacy programs and mobilized support
• How did Neo-Marxist Manduro view Liberation Theology?

  As a revolutionary force disrupting the status quo
• What change occurred in the Catholic Church's attitude towards Liberation Theology in the 1980s?

  Pope John Paul II condemned it as Marxist
• How does Liberation Theology illustrate religion's dual character?

  It can be both conservative and a force for change
• What do some Marxists question about Liberation Theology's impact?

  Its effectiveness in threatening capitalism's stability
• How does Pentecostalism support social change?

  Encourages self-improvement through hard work
• What is Gramsci's view on religion's role in society?

  It can challenge and support the ruling class
• What does Gramsci mean by hegemony?

  Ideological dominance by the ruling class
• How can popular forms of religion help workers according to Gramsci?

  By creating class consciousness and awareness
• What role can clergy play in the working class movement?

  Act as organic intellectuals and leaders
• What did Billings' study reveal about religion's role in class struggles?

  Religion can defend or justify social change
• What criticism do Functionalists have regarding religion's role?

  It integrates society rather than promotes change
• What do fundamentalist movements seek to restore?

  Traditional conservative beliefs in society
• How do fundamentalists interpret their sacred texts?

  As literal truth, not metaphorical stories
• How did the ruler of Iran view traditional Islamic culture in the 1920s and 30s?

  As an obstacle to modernization
• What was the outcome of the 1979 Iranian revolution?

  Reversal of social liberation due to fundamentalism
• How do fundamentalist movements align with Neo-Marxist views?

  They represent the poor and oppressed
• What does Tearfund research indicate about UK church attendance?

  Only 15% of UK adults attend church regularly
• What challenge does secularization pose to religion's influence in Britain?

  It reduces religion's power over society