MARX: Theories of Religion

Question 1

“Religion is the Opium of the Masses” meaning?

Answer 1

Religion and Alienation -
Opiate (drug) to dull the pain of exploitation. Distorts vision of the world, and the afterlife is an illusory happiness.
- LEGITIMATES POORS SUFFERING

Question 2

Marx’s Theories of Religion?

Answer 2

R/C must maintain social inequality.
In a classless society, religion is not needed.
Religion distorts perception of reality, and legitimates inequality as ‘God Given.’ (inevitable)

Question 3

Lenin’s Theories of Religion?

Answer 3

Religion is ‘Spiritual Gin’
- Religion is an intoxicant dulled out to the masses - R/C almost ‘indoctrinates’ them, by crafting a ‘mystical joy.’

Question 4

Althusser’s Theories of Religion?

Answer 4

Repressive(SA) - Physical control - Police, Judicial system. W/C receive punishment and threats

Ideological(SA) - Controls W/C thoughts to prevent criminal/deviant behaviour. E.G education system, family and media.

Question 5

The Caste System?

Answer 5

• Ascribed status through Social Stratification - You are born into the same caste as your parents
• KARMA - maintains inequality by assuring that those who are at the bottom of the caste will be rewarded for obedience.
• Reincarnated to higher caste