Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which aspect of religious practice does the functionalist approach primarily emphasize?
Which aspect of religious practice does the functionalist approach primarily emphasize?
- The historical origins of religious texts and traditions.
- The theological accuracy of religious doctrines.
- The role and impact of religion within society. (correct)
- The emotional experiences of individual believers.
What is the primary focus when initiating analysis through functionalism and the hermeneutic of suspicion?
What is the primary focus when initiating analysis through functionalism and the hermeneutic of suspicion?
- The historical timeline of religious figureheads.
- The architectural designs of religious buildings.
- The stated beliefs and actions of religious adherents. (correct)
- The psychological states induced by religious rituals.
How do our formative years influence the way we speak and classify the world?
How do our formative years influence the way we speak and classify the world?
- They encourage us to develop unique linguistic styles unrelated to our geographical location.
- They provide us with a universal understanding of objective truths, independent of social context.
- They expose us to diverse cultural perspectives, enabling a comprehensive worldview.
- They establish a foundation of region-specific social data that shapes our language and classifications. (correct)
In the context of social constructionism, how are the words and definitions we use to classify the world primarily determined?
In the context of social constructionism, how are the words and definitions we use to classify the world primarily determined?
How does essentialism function in the context of social perceptions?
How does essentialism function in the context of social perceptions?
Which scenario exemplifies systemic social domination?
Which scenario exemplifies systemic social domination?
What does the term 'othering' refer to regarding insider/outsider dynamics?
What does the term 'othering' refer to regarding insider/outsider dynamics?
How does naturalization function within social systems?
How does naturalization function within social systems?
Which of the following is an example of an 'Assigned Behavior' within the basic structure of society?
Which of the following is an example of an 'Assigned Behavior' within the basic structure of society?
What is the role of 'absent authority figures' in influencing behavior, and which of the following is an example?
What is the role of 'absent authority figures' in influencing behavior, and which of the following is an example?
Flashcards
Functionalist Approach
Functionalist Approach
Focuses on the role of religion and religious practices in society, recognizing multiple functions for a single practice depending on its relationship.
Hermeneutic of Suspicion
Hermeneutic of Suspicion
Challenges truth claims by analyzing underlying power dynamics and motivations behind religious statements.
Language Reflects Social Context
Language Reflects Social Context
Social constructionism suggests that the words and definitions used to classify the world are based on social relationships and constructs.
Social Constructionism
Social Constructionism
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Essentialism
Essentialism
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Types of Social Domination
Types of Social Domination
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Othering
Othering
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Naturalization
Naturalization
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Basic Structure of Society
Basic Structure of Society
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Habitus
Habitus
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Study Notes
- Study notes based on the provided text:
Functionalist Approach to Religion
- Focuses on the role and functions of religion and religious practices within society.
- Acknowledges that a single religious practice can have multiple functions.
- The functions of religious practices are dependent on their specific relationships within the community
Emic and Etic Perspectives
- Emic: An insider's perspective or view of a particular religious or cultural phenomenon.
- Etic: An outsider's perspective or view, often seeking objective analysis.
Hermeneutic of Suspicion
- It is a method which questions truth claims, suggesting proclaimed truths may serve specific interests or agendas.
- Analysis begins by examining the claims made by religious adherents, analyzing the statements and actions of insiders.
Social Context and Language
- Reflects our social data, indicating where we exist geographically, culturally, and temporally.
- Early formative years are significant in shaping how we use language in specific regions.
Social Constructionism
- It is the concept that the world is shaped by social relationships.
- Relates to how we name and classify elements, such as designating an object a "chair."
- It emphasizes that reality is actively constructed through social processes.
Essentialism
- It involves attributing inherent "thingness" to people and places.
- Involves attaching a label to a group, often leading to stereotyping.
Social Domination
- Relational: Domination occurring through relationships between different social groups.
- System: Domination enforced by a system like a government through arbitrary rules.
Othering
- It happens when those of an ideological insider position reject perceived "otherness" or new ways of being.
- It involves making individuals who don't fit in feel unwelcome, excluding them from the dominant group.
Naturalization
- It is how social systems effectively guide and constrain individuals, making societal demands on insiders almost invisible.
- Achieved through various means, including texts, methodology, scripture, indoctrination, and art.
Basic Structure of Society
- Insider/Outsider Boundaries: Defined by elements such as gates and dress codes.
- Social Hierarchies and Social Positions: Ranked positions like pope and bishop.
- Assigned Behaviors: Expectations such as following a dress code.
Habitus
- It reinforces social positions and hierarchies.
- It is comprised of human habits within a social system.
- Can lead to privilege for those aligned with dominant social norms.
Three Types of Authority
- Authoritative Things
- Authoritative People and Positions
- Absent Authority Figures: This is often most influential, exemplified by "What Would Jesus Do" (WWJD).
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