Discuss the view that structural-functionalists have on religion. Identify and describe two points they would make about the positive role of religion and two points about its negative role.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Correct answer varies but should say that structural-functionalists view the function that organizations play in society. They list several functions that religion plays in social life: 1. Gives people a sense of security and allows them to feel solidarity with others and have a sense of the overall world and how to organize life; 2. Explains puzzling aspects of life and helps to deal with negatives such as suffering and death; 3. Provides ethical guidelines for moral and immoral behavior; 4. Provides guidelines for a better style of life such as how to stay healthy physically and mentally; 5. Religious systems can provide individuals with hope for the future and provide a sense of self-confidence and optimism about the future-that everything will turn out all right; 6. Religion helps in the process of social change and defines some of the foundation for major changes in society. Dysfunctions include violence, intolerance, disrespect, and exploitation of minority groups.