Functional/inclusive Flashcards
Definition
This explains religion in terms of what it does or what it contributes to society. Eg uniting people in society
Religion offers a sense of community to its followers; it explains life events such as birth and death. Religion is a communal activity and provides some form of collective organisation for the communal expression of beliefs. This broader definition of religion can cover a wide range of practices and some may not usually be regarded as religious. E.g. supporting football
Advantages
This can be an advantage as it opens up a wide field of investigation; it has no bias against non-Christian religions.
It makes allowance for the dynamic nature of religion by showing how many activities can take on the functions of a religion.
Disadvantages
Too many activities can be viewed as religious, including some that are obviously secular according to the common-sense view of society eg football as a religion.
It is ideological and used by those who wish to show that secularisation* is not taking place in society ie religious belief and activity is just changing not declining.
