Marxist theories of religion Flashcards
(16 cards)
What does functionalism emphasize about religion?
Functionalism emphasizes the positive functions religion performs, but it neglects negative aspects.
How do Marxists view society in relation to class?
Marxists see all societies as divided into two classes, one of which exploits the labour of the other.
Who exploits the working class in modern capitalist society?
The capitalist class, who own the means of production, exploit the working class.
What does Marx predict about the working class?
Marx predicts that the working class would ultimately become aware of their exploitation and overthrow capitalism, leading to a classless society.
What is ideology according to Marxists?
For Marxists, ideology is a belief system that distorts people’s perception of reality in the interests of the ruling class.
How does the ruling class control ideas?
The class that controls economic production also controls the production and distribution of ideas, through institutions such as religion and the media.
How does religion function as an ideological weapon?
Religion operates as an ideological weapon used by the ruling class to legitimize the suffering of the poor as something inevitable and god-given.
What is false consciousness?
False consciousness is a distorted view of reality that prevents the poor from acting to change their situation.
What did Lenin describe religion as?
Lenin described religion as ‘spiritual gin’ that confuses the working class and keeps them in their place.
How does religion obscure reality according to Lenin?
The ruling class uses religion to manipulate the masses by creating a ‘mystical fog’ that obscures reality.
How does religion legitimize the power of the dominant class?
Religion legitimates the power and privilege of the dominant class by making their position appear divinely ordained.
What does Marx say about alienation?
Marx sees religion as the product of alienation - becoming separated from or losing control over something that one has produced or created.
Why are workers alienated under capitalism?
Workers are alienated because they do not own what they produce and have no control over the production process.
What is religion described as in dehumanizing conditions?
In dehumanizing conditions, religion is described as ‘the opium of the people’ and ‘the sigh of the oppressed creature’.
How does religion act as an opiate?
Religion acts as an opiate to dull the pain of exploitation and distract attention from the true source of suffering, namely capitalism.
What is Althusser’s view on alienation?
Some Marxists, such as Althusser, reject the concept of alienation as unscientific, making it an inadequate basis for a theory of religion.
