Traditional Marxism

Question 1

What is the overall view of religion by traditional Marxist

Answer 1

Religion is an ideology (a systematic set of beliefs serving the interests of a particular social group) used by the ruling class to control the working class and prevent revolution.

Question 2

Religion dulls the pain of oppression

Answer 2

According to Karl Marx, religion is like a drug for the working class - “it is the opium of the people”, such that it numbs the physical and mental pain that working class absorb because they are being alienated by capitalism; for example attending church service provides comforting illusions as it promises heaven to those who believe it (thus they have something to look forward to)

This implies that religion acts as a distraction such that it acts as a unifying force (singing hymns and listening to bible stories together) from the struggles of class conflict (false class consciousness)

Question 3

Religion dulls the pain of oppression (evaluation)

Answer 3

Religion doesn’t necessarily perpetuate a state of false class consciousness amongst the poor, it can inspire rebellion and change. This is evident in the origins of major world religions such as Islam and Christianity, all of which have emerged from struggles against the prevailing hierarchies of their time.

Question 4

Religion legitimises inequality

Answer 4

Marx argues that religion is man-made and used by the elites to justify their exploitation, religion teaches its believer that thier position is god given.

Religion often promotes acceptance of one’s socioeconomic status, encouraging the working class to view their suffering as a test of faith or a path to an after life to ease, therefore this ideological function acts as a mechanism of social control as keeps the working class passive and obedient. (The working class accept their plight as part of a divine plan)

Question 5

Religion legitimises inequality (evaluation)