THEORIES OF RELIGION

FUNCTIONALISM

Essential function of religion is to provide through sacred symbols a mirror for members of society to see themselves.

See Sec. 2 “Why Religion?”

CONFLICT THEORY

Religion works to either inhibit or encourage social change.

See Karl Marx and Max Weber

SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM

Religious beliefs, rituals, and ideas tell people the difference between the sacred and the profane and provide stability and security in a changing and uncertain existence.

“There are no atheists in foxholes.”

SEC. 4: RELIGION IN THE U.S.

DEVELOPMENT OF RELIGION IN AMERICA

Religious Freedom Puritans viewed themselves as a religious

example for the world to follow and admire. “City upon a hill” Framers of the Constitution were leery of

connecting religion and government.

SECULARIZATION

Process through which the sacred loses influence over society.

Only 57% in 2001 claimed religion was important to them.

However, some studies argue only 8% of Americans define themselves as without religious preference.

According to research, 96% of American’s believe in God or a deity.

RELIGIOUS PREFERENCES

Most recent figures I have say: 58% of Americans are protestant (20%

baptist) 25% of Americans are Catholic. Roughly 60

million are members of the Roman Catholic Church.

FUNDAMENTALISM IN AMERICA

The resistance of secularization and the rigid adherence to traditional religious beliefs, rituals, and doctrines.

Most are politically conservative Science vs. the Bible Emphasis on social service (the Great

Commission) Literal truth of the Bible. “Born-Again” Strong belief in Revelations Speaking in tongues???

FUNDAMENTALISM IS STRONG TODAY

Because: World is out of control, the end is near! Emphasis on warmth, love, and caring for

people that “need” it. Less strict than mainline churches.

More sacred. Less traditional Fundamentalism is in all Protestant

organizations, but they are Predominately found in Mormons, Assemblies of God, the Seventh-Day Adventists, Baptists, and Jehovah’s Witnesses.

RELIGION, CLASS, AND POLITICS

Based on income: High Class – Presbyterians, Episcopalians,

and Jews. Middle Class – Lutherans, Catholics, and

Methodists. Lower Class – Baptists Higher class attends church more and very

devoted to rituals. Higher class are usually Republicans Middle-Lower Class usually Democrats.

RELIGION, SCIENCE AND SOCIETY

Examine humanity’s relationship to the world.

Debate over creation and evolution. What can be taught in schools?