Neo-Marxist perspective Religion

Question 1

What do Neo-Marxist agree with?

Answer 1

Neo-Marxists agree with Marxism that religion exploits the poor.

But they criticise Marxism as religion is not always apart of the superstructure so the working class don’t always go along with the ruling class system.

Question 2

What does Bloch say about the duel nature of religion?

Answer 2

Bloch - religion is an expression of ‘the principle of hope’ - our dreams of a better life that contains images of Utopia: deceiving people with false promises of rewards in heaven.

Question 3

What does Gramsci say about the duel nature of religion?

Answer 3

Gramsci - the ruling class use hegemony to establish popular consent but the vision of a better world may motivate people to challenge the powerful

Question 4

What does Maduro say about religion as a force for social change?

Answer 4

Maduro - in societies where religion is dominant, the ruling class can only be overpowered with the support of the churches.

Question 5

What does the Liberation Theology say about religion as a force for social change?

Answer 5

Liberation theology - a movement in Christian theology which attempts to address the problems of poverty and social justice.

e.g overthrowing the communist regime in 1980’s Poland.

Question 6

What are the positives of the Neo-Marxist perspective?

Answer 6

1. Explains religion can lead to social change.

Question 7

What are the negatives of the Neo-Marxist perspective?

Answer 7

1. Feminists argue gender is a larger factor than social class.