Describe symbolic interactionist perspectives on religion and explain how women and men may view religion differently

What will be an ideal response?


Symbolic interactionists focus their attention on a microlevel analysis that examines the meanings people give to religion in their everyday lives. For many people, religion serves as a reference group to help them define themselves. For example, religious symbols have meaning for large bodies of people. The Star of David holds special significance for Jews, just as the crescent moon and star do for Muslims and the cross does for Christians. For individuals as well, a symbol may have a certain meaning beyond that shared by the group. For instance, a symbolic gift given to a child may have special meaning when he or she grows up and faces war or other crises. It may not only remind the adult of a religious belief but also create a feeling of closeness with a relative who is now deceased. Not all people interpret religion in the same way. In virtually all religions, women have much less influence in establishing social definitions of appropriate gender roles both within the religious community and in the larger community.

Therefore, women and men may belong to the same religious group, but their individual religion will not necessarily be a carbon copy of the group's entire system of beliefs. Women's versions of a certain religion probably differ markedly from men's versions. Religious symbolism and language typically create a social definition of the roles of men and women. Many women resist the subordination that they have experienced in organized religion. They have worked to change the existing rules that have excluded them or placed them in a clearly subordinate position.

Sociology

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