Introduction to Sociology/Religion

Introduction to Sociology/Religion



In sociology, religion is studied by several approaches. weather right and wrong is not important right and wrong in religion from sociology. Sociologist have to just support a neutral position and the point of view relativistic.



“Theories of Religion”

- Structural-Functional

This approach has its roots in Emile Durkheim's work on religion. and he explained that religion is the celebration and worship of human society. but it overlooks religion's dysfunctions.

- Social-Conflict

This approach is rooted in Marx's analysis of capitalism. and he explained that religion was actually a tool of the bourgeoisie to keep the proletariat content. also

this approach was important in the sense that it have asserted change.

- Social Constructionist

This approach suggest a naturalistic explanation of the origins of religion. In social constructionist, religion is not created by supernatural beings but these elements of society are objectified in this approach. As a result, they can act on the individual.

- Religious Pluralism

Religious pluralism can overcome religious differences between different religions and denominational conflicts within the same religion. The pluralism depends on the existence of freedom of religion.

- Social-Psychological

the social-psychological can explain why religion continues to exist. this studies have found that fear is a factor in religious conversion and providing the purpose of life.


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To understand people who believe in religion is personally difficult because I do not believe in religion. But I can understand that observing the religion from the viewpoint of sociology would be difficult. because religion is responsible for the emotional problems of many people. If you mention the wrong on the issue of religion, you undergo enormous damage. So, sociologist is also sensitive an issue of religion. Religious pluralism has been described as belief of being able to overcome the conflict of religion. But these conflicts is not yet recovered contrary to the description. because religious problems are related in a complex manner. However, we should not avoid the problem of religion and study more systematically.

 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I want to know social viewpoint of the Christian people. Do they really have a view of the religion from a neutral point? (I did not ask about this to them. because I am timid)