2. Marxist Theories of Beliefs

• What are two criticisms of the Marxist theory of belief?

  Marx ignores positive functions of religion

  Most religions contradict the idea that wealth is admirable. It would make more sense to revolt than accept capitalism
• What are two strengths of the Marxist theory of belief?

  Religious success can create an alienated sense of class consciousness for WC

  Religion gives emotional support during a crisis or uncertainty by offering social reward
• Gramsci - Hegemony


  -The ideological control that the ruling class have over the masses

  -In order to maintain a good hold, you have to make them believe the system is fair
• How did Lenin echo Marx's argument?


  He referred to religion as 'spiritual gin' & said the ruling class used religion to create a 'mystical fog' to obscure reality for WC
• Master-Slave dialectic

  Hegel's account of the confrontation between an all-powerful master and his presumably powerless slave

  The conflict between the two reveals that the master is dependent upon his slave; the slave, by winning his struggle for freedom and recognition, liberates both himself and the master
• How does religion create class consciousness?

  The proletariat don't care about material possessions because their faith is more important and they're aware of their place in society but don't do anything to change it
• How does shaping the worldview of the oppressed help the bourgeoisie? (2)

  Diverts their attention from the material conditions of their exploitation

  Discourages revolutionary consciousness
• What did Marx think religion does to distract the working class?

  Religion pacifies & distracts the working class, offering a false sense of comfort and hope whilst masking the true source of their suffering: economic exploitation
• What is Marx's quote about religion?

  "Religion is the opiate of the masses"
• What did Marx think about religion?

  An ideological weapon employed by the ruling class- no need for religion in a classless society