Neo Marxism

Question 1

Approach to religion

Answer 1

Capitalism doesn’t necessarily determine the rest of society- religion can actually be used to overthrow capitalism

Question 2

Main beliefs (2)

Answer 2

Religion is a radical force for social change
Religion can challenge the capitalist system & promote class consciousness

Question 3

Gramsci (2)

Answer 3

Hegemony- religion maintains r/c control over the w/c e.g. Roman Catholicism in Italy

However has been used to support interests of oppressed classes- used to challenge dominant r/c ideology and hegemonic control of the masses

Question 4

Maduro

Answer 4

In developing countries religion has the power to create social change (revolutionary force) - Latin America- church leads w/c to join together and overthrow r/c

Question 5

Althusser (2)

Answer 5

ISA- spread ideas, RSA- institutions which oppress/control people through use of force

Religion (ISA) can be used to create social change, therefore the RSA’s respond with force to stop revolution

Question 6

Contemporary example of ISA v RSA

Answer 6

Buddhist monks involved in peaceful protest against Govt in Burma- many arrested/detained

Question 7

Liberation Theology (3)

Answer 7

Began as a response to poverty- Idea that religious beliefs/texts can be used to justify a w/c revolution.

Bible- encourages oppressed to take control of their situation

Supports Neo-Marxist idea that religion isn’t always used to reproduce cap and inequality