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AQA A-level Sociology > Beliefs-Science And Ideology > Flashcards

Beliefs-Science And Ideology Flashcards

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1
Q

What period did science first emerge from?

A

The Enlightenment

The Enlightenment was a period in the 18th Century marked by a shift from religious to scientific explanations of the world.

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2
Q

What does science aim to be free from?

A

Beliefs and biases

Science claims to be objective and value-free.

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3
Q

What type of knowledge does science pursue?

A

Facts supported by empirical evidence

Empirical evidence is knowledge gained through the senses.

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4
Q

What is the principle that governs scientific theories according to Popper?

A

Falsification

Falsification means that theories must be testable and can be disproven.

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5
Q

What is one characteristic of science?

A

Cumulative

Scientists build on each other’s discoveries and share findings.

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6
Q

What does it mean for a scientific theory to be reliable?

A

It follows a standardized procedure

Standardized procedures allow for replication of research.

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7
Q

What is an example of a scientific theory that challenged religious ideas?

A

Darwin’s theory of evolution

This theory introduced the concept of evolution and adaptation instead of creation by God.

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8
Q

Fill in the blank: Science believes in cause and effect relationships, seeking to establish laws of society known as _______.

A

Social facts

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9
Q

What is meant by ‘organised scepticism’ in science?

A

All scientific knowledge is open to questioning

This means that theories can be tested and disproven by others.

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10
Q

True or False: Scientific theories offer absolute truth.

A

False

Scientific theories remain true until disproven by new evidence.

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11
Q

What does the acronym SAGE stand for?

A

Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies

SAGE provides scientific advice to the UK government.

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12
Q

What does the phrase ‘Hands, Face, Space’ relate to in the context of science?

A

Guidelines based on scientific evidence during the coronavirus pandemic

These guidelines were based on established facts and testable ideas.

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13
Q

What is the role of peer review in science?

A

To develop or discard theories

Peer review helps ensure that scientific findings are accurate and reliable.

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14
Q

What type of evidence does science rely on?

A

Empirical evidence

Empirical evidence involves knowledge gained through observation and experience.

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15
Q

What is the nature of scientific theories?

A

Scientific theories are constantly evolving according to latest discoveries and evidence

This reflects the dynamic nature of science and its reliance on empirical evidence.

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16
Q

What type of evidence does science rely on?

A

Based on empirical evidence - ‘social facts’ through the senses

An example is the law of gravity, which can be observed directly.

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17
Q

What does it mean for science to be an open belief system?

A

Scientific knowledge can be tested and is governed by the principle of falsification

Testing is encouraged to discover the truth.

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18
Q

What is a characteristic of religious knowledge systems?

A

A closed knowledge system - basic beliefs within a religion do not change

This is often based on holy texts like the Bible and the Qur’an.

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19
Q

What type of faith does religion typically rely on?

A

Based on ‘blind faith’ - the supernatural cannot be observed with the naked eye

Followers must believe without concrete evidence.

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20
Q

How does religion view challenges to its beliefs?

A

A closed belief system - religion cannot be tested or challenged

Challenging the word of God is often considered a sin.

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21
Q

How are religious texts interpreted?

A

Open to interpretation - holy texts are open to different responses

Followers may have varying interpretations of what is written.

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22
Q

What is Kuhn’s criticism of science?

A

Kuhn claims that science is not 100% rational and objective

His work emphasizes the influence of paradigms on scientific practice.

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23
Q

What does it mean that science is a social construction?

A

Scientists themselves create it and operate within paradigms

Their paradigms influence research focus, methods, and findings.

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24
Q

What happens when evidence cannot be explained within an existing paradigm?

A

A scientific revolution takes place, discarding the old paradigm for a new one

This often occurs infrequently due to various pressures in the scientific community.

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25
What was an example of a scientific revolution mentioned?
Darwin's theory of evolution went against the existing paradigm ## Footnote This led to the development of a new paradigm in biology.
26
What influences scientists' research and findings according to Kuhn?
The power of the paradigm means scientists may overlook evidence that does not fit ## Footnote This subjectivity can impact scientific outcomes.
27
What has modern science changed in the way people think?
People want evidence to back-up ideas and theories
28
What type of evidence can science provide?
Empirical evidence based on reason and observation
29
What is an example of observable scientific evidence?
The law of gravity
30
What certainty does science offer?
Everything is made of atoms and the Earth goes around the sun
31
Why can't religion offer certainty?
Religious texts are open to interpretation, no absolute truth
32
What principle governs scientific theories according to Popper?
Falsification
33
What happens if a scientific theory is found to be false?
It is discarded and a new theory is created
34
What does 'organised scepticism' in science refer to?
All scientific knowledge is open to questioning
35
What trend is seen in the UK regarding religious belief?
Increasing numbers of people are now atheist or have no religion
36
What percentage of the UK population has no religion?
52%
37
What cultural movement is associated with Richard Dawkins?
New atheism
38
What do new atheists believe about empirical science?
It is the only basis for genuine knowledge of the world
39
What is a characteristic of a closed belief system in religion?
Basic beliefs do not change and challenge is considered a sin
40
What is the conclusion about the relationship between science and religion?
Science has replaced religion
41
Fill in the blank: New atheism reflects the growing trend of the white British population turning to science for answers instead of the _______.
church
42
What is the stance of religion regarding belief in God?
It is based on 'blind faith'
43
What is a key criticism of religious beliefs by new atheists?
There is no evidence of the existence of God in any religion
44
What was the context of scientific theories during the coronavirus pandemic?
'Hands, Face, Space' based on established facts and testable ideas
45
What is desacrilisation?
Desacrilisation is the view that the 'sacred' has little place in modern society because rational, scientific explanations have replaced sacred explanations. ## Footnote It reflects a shift from religious to scientific reasoning in understanding the world.
46
What does rationalisation refer to in the context of modern society?
Rationalisation refers to a process whereby people seek explanations based on reason and logic rather than supernatural beliefs. ## Footnote This process is evident in how people explain events like car crashes.
47
Give an example of rationalisation in response to a car crash.
People would look for rational, scientific explanations (e.g., the driver was texting or distracted) instead of supernatural explanations (e.g., God's punishment). ## Footnote This illustrates the preference for scientific reasoning.
48
How did the coronavirus pandemic reflect desacrilisation and rationalisation?
Politicians and the public turned to science for explanations and solutions, such as vaccines and treatments, rather than religious interpretations. ## Footnote The role of SAGE in advising the UK government is an example.
49
True or False: Science has completely replaced religion in modern society.
False ## Footnote While science has gained prominence, religion still plays a significant role for many individuals.
50
What is resacrilisation in the context of young Muslims?
Resacrilisation refers to a re-emphasis on religion among young Muslims, who see Islam as a key part of their ethnic identities. ## Footnote Many young Muslims embrace their heritage while integrating modern identities.
51
What percentage of Muslims in England and Wales are aged under 25?
Nearly half ## Footnote This statistic highlights the youth demographic within the Muslim community.
52
What is indicated by the growth of Islam in recent years?
A religious revival and increased popularity of religion. ## Footnote This suggests that not everyone is turning to science for answers.
53
What do NAMs stand for?
New Age Movements ## Footnote These movements represent a shift towards spiritual alternatives for many individuals.
54
Fill in the blank: The growth in spiritual businesses such as Reiki and crystal therapy suggests a _______ is taking place.
spiritual revolution
55
Who are among those that have left traditional churches but still seek spirituality?
Many white British middle-class women ## Footnote They often turn to NAMs to explore their inner spirituality.
56
What can science not provide that leads people to seek religious or spiritual explanations?
All the answers to life's questions ## Footnote There are many phenomena and experiences that remain unexplained by science.
57
What does Davie mean by 'Religion is now vicarious'?
People no longer attend church regularly; a small number of priests practice religion on behalf of the public. ## Footnote This suggests a shift in how individuals engage with religious practices, moving from personal participation to relying on religious leaders.
58
What do many people do in times of crisis or tragedy?
Many people attend church, light candles, and say prayers for victims. ## Footnote This indicates that even non-religious individuals may seek comfort from religious rituals during difficult times.
59
What is religious pluralism?
The presence of multiple religions and beliefs, suggesting a religious revival. ## Footnote It reflects a shift from adherence to a single religion to a variety of beliefs.
60
How do postmodernists view religion in contemporary society?
They see it as a religious marketplace where individuals are 'spiritual shoppers'. ## Footnote This perspective emphasizes personal choice and the mixing of different beliefs.
61
What does syncretism in religion refer to?
The blending of multiple religious beliefs and practices. ## Footnote Examples include adopting elements from Reiki, Buddhism, and crystal therapy.
62
Define ideology in a sociological context.
A set of ideas that seeks to justify the interests of a particular social group. ## Footnote Ideologies provide frameworks for understanding societal structures and advocating for change.
63
What is an example of a patriarchal ideology?
Patriarchal ideology seeks to justify male dominance. ## Footnote It serves the interests of men by maintaining traditional power structures.
64
What are two sociological ideologies that aim to improve social positions?
* Feminism * Marxism ## Footnote These ideologies critique society and advocate for fairness and equality.
65
How do Feminist and Marxist ideologies view religion?
They argue that religion is run by and in the interests of powerful groups. ## Footnote This perspective suggests that religion can perpetuate social inequalities.
66
What do Marxists argue about religion and the working class?
Religion keeps the working class in a state of false class consciousness. ## Footnote This prevents them from challenging their powerlessness or starting a revolution.
67
Fill in the blank: An ideology is a closed belief system where the basic ideas do not _______.
change over time. ## Footnote This indicates that ideologies are often resistant to adaptation.
68
What do Traditional Marxists believe about capitalist society?
It operates in the interests of the ruling class.
69
What do ruling class ideologies do according to Traditional Marxism?
They legitimate inequalities and keep the working class in false class consciousness.
70
What is the role of ideological state apparatuses in Traditional Marxism?
They spread ruling class ideology through social institutions like family, education, and religion.
71
How does education serve the interests of the ruling class in Traditional Marxism?
It leads children to believe education is fair and meritocratic.
72
What happens when working class children underachieve in a capitalist society?
They blame themselves instead of the capitalist system.
73
What do Marxists aim to achieve in society?
They want to remove capitalism to create a fairer society.
74
What is expected to happen when the working class gains class consciousness?
They will unite to overthrow capitalism.
75
What will a working class revolution lead to according to Marxism?
A classless communist society with collectively owned means of production.
76
What do feminists aim to end?
Patriarchal ideology and campaign for greater equality for women.
77
What is patriarchal ideology?
A set of ideas that supports and justifies male power in society.
78
How do patriarchal ideologies manifest in religion?
They define women as inferior, as seen in practices like sexual apartheid.
79
What is the role of nationalism in political ideology?
It prioritizes national loyalty and identity above other identities like class or religion.
80
How do Neo-Functionalists view nationalism?
As a secular civil religion that integrates individuals into a national community.
81
What is one similarity between nationalism and religion according to Neo-Functionalism?
Both can make individuals feel part of something greater than themselves.
82
Why might nationalism be preferred over religion in modern societies?
It unites people regardless of differences such as religion or social class.
83
What role does education play in creating social solidarity according to functionalists?
It includes collective rituals involving nationalist symbols.
84
Fill in the blank: Nationalism functions as a _______ uniting diverse individuals.
[civil religion]
85
True or False: Feminists believe that men are inherently superior to women.
False.
86
What is ideology?
A world view with a cohesive set of inter-related beliefs and values which offers a way to understand the world ## Footnote Ideology can take many forms, including religious and political worldviews.
87
How do some sociologists view ideology?
As a set of beliefs that justify the interests of a particular social group in a disguised fashion ## Footnote This perspective often highlights the role of ideology in maintaining social inequalities.
88
What do Marxists believe about ideology?
It legitimates the inequalities found in capitalist society where the ruling class exploits the working class ## Footnote Marxists argue that ideology prevents the working class from seeing the real cause of their weak position.
89
What role does religion play according to Marxists?
It prevents class consciousness and social change by justifying the position of the working class as God's will ## Footnote This discourages the working class from challenging their socio-economic status.
90
What do Functionalists believe about religious ideologies in modern society?
They have lost some power to influence people due to the rise of rational, scientific thought ## Footnote This undermines the belief in a single true religion.
91
What is the implication of a multi-faith society according to Functionalists?
It undermines the belief that there is only one true religion ## Footnote This loss of belief may threaten social cohesion.
92
What do Neo-Functionalists argue about civil religion?
It takes the place of traditional religion in preventing social change ## Footnote Civil religion, such as nationalism, can unite people and foster a sense of belonging.
93
What is an example of nationalism mentioned in the text?
Americans pledging allegiance to the flag and celebrating the 4th of July ## Footnote These national events help reinforce a national identity.
94
Is religion still the main ideological influence in society today?
YES ## Footnote This statement reflects the view that religion continues to play a significant role in shaping ideology.
95
What do Traditional Marxists argue about religion's role?
It maintains ruling class ideology and justifies their dominance and power ## Footnote Religion promotes the idea that existing hierarchies are God-given.
96
How does religion affect the working class according to Traditional Marxists?
It teaches them to accept their position as God's will ## Footnote Challenging this belief could result in not gaining a place in heaven.
97
What is the Neo-Marxist perspective on religion?
Religion does not always maintain ruling class ideology; it can help the working class gain class consciousness ## Footnote For example, Liberation Theology in South America illustrates this dynamic.
98
What is ideology?
A world view with a cohesive set of inter-related beliefs and values which offers a way to understand the world ## Footnote Ideology can take many forms, including religious and political worldviews.
99
How do some sociologists view ideology?
As a set of beliefs that justify the interests of a particular social group in a disguised fashion ## Footnote This perspective often highlights the role of ideology in maintaining social inequalities.
100
What do Marxists believe about ideology?
It legitimates the inequalities found in capitalist society where the ruling class exploits the working class ## Footnote Marxists argue that ideology prevents the working class from seeing the real cause of their weak position.
101
What role does religion play according to Marxists?
It prevents class consciousness and social change by justifying the position of the working class as God's will ## Footnote This discourages the working class from challenging their socio-economic status.
102
What do Functionalists believe about religious ideologies in modern society?
They have lost some power to influence people due to the rise of rational, scientific thought ## Footnote This undermines the belief in a single true religion.
103
What is the implication of a multi-faith society according to Functionalists?
It undermines the belief that there is only one true religion ## Footnote This loss of belief may threaten social cohesion.
104
What do Neo-Functionalists argue about civil religion?
It takes the place of traditional religion in preventing social change ## Footnote Civil religion, such as nationalism, can unite people and foster a sense of belonging.
105
What is an example of nationalism mentioned in the text?
Americans pledging allegiance to the flag and celebrating the 4th of July ## Footnote These national events help reinforce a national identity.
106
Is religion still the main ideological influence in society today?
YES ## Footnote This statement reflects the view that religion continues to play a significant role in shaping ideology.
107
What do Traditional Marxists argue about religion's role?
It maintains ruling class ideology and justifies their dominance and power ## Footnote Religion promotes the idea that existing hierarchies are God-given.
108
How does religion affect the working class according to Traditional Marxists?
It teaches them to accept their position as God's will ## Footnote Challenging this belief could result in not gaining a place in heaven.
109
What is the Neo-Marxist perspective on religion?
Religion does not always maintain ruling class ideology; it can help the working class gain class consciousness ## Footnote For example, Liberation Theology in South America illustrates this dynamic.

AQA A-level Sociology (21 decks)

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