Social Action

Question 1

How are social action approaches different than the theoretical perspectives?

Answer 1

They have no opinion on religion, they want to know what WE think

Question 2

Weber (2)

Answer 2

Verstehen idea, he focused less on the role/function of religion and emphasised meanings that individuals attach to religious beliefs

Question 3

Weber: Calvinists study (4)

Answer 3

Pre destination- God has already decided who is to be ‘saved’ in the afterlife, hard work is a way of honouring God, living an ascetic lifestyle- focus on accumulating wealth through minimal spending

Calvinist religion gave individuals a framework by which to attach meaning to their actions- led to capitalism (revolutionary force)

Question 4

Berger (3)

Answer 4

Religion provides
‘universe of meaning’ (religion helps make sense of the world- it gives answers) and;
‘sacred canopy’ (stretches over society and protects individuals from the uncertainties)

Without religion life would be meaningless for many individuals