Religion May Encourage Rather Than Inhibit Social Change...

Religion May Encourage Rather Than Inhibit Social Change There are many arguments for and against the notion of religion encouraging change in society. In his book The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism, Max Weber examines the possible relationship between the rise in Calvinism, a denomination of Protestantism, and the growth of industrialisation (or capitalism). He says that the guidelines laid down by this religion state a man must have a calling in life, or in other words a well-defined career which he pursues in a single-minded, determined manner. Followers of Calvinism were forbidden to spend the money they earned at work on luxuries such as fine clothing, big houses,†¦show more content†¦From this view, it is impossible to argue that religion can promote social change. Marx believes that religion is a conservative force. This can mean one of two things - maintaining the status quo, or reverting to traditional values. He states that religion is a conservative force due to it contributing to social order, and brainwashing the subject class into accepting their position in society without argument (a false class-consciousness). If people think their position has been given by God, they are discouraged from attempting to change their situation. Religion therefore diverts attention away from the real source of their oppression and helps to maintain ruling class power. The theories of Bird (1999) and Pryce (1979) fit in with Marxs ideas - Bird suggests that Pentacostalism (a denomination of Christianity), enabled the African-Carribbean people to cope with and adjust to a racist and unjust society. He agreed with Marxs statement that religion serves as an opium for the people. Pryce says that it encourages hard work, sexual morality, prudent management of finances and strong support of the family and community. This also reflects the Protestant ethic that Weber say as essential in the development of capitalism. There is further evidence to support the Marxist view of religion - in Medieval Europe,Show MoreRelatedStereotypes1401 Words   |  6 Pagesthe social context of our lives, regardless of race or gender (religion has a lot further to go in this area), we are presented with new obstacles to overcome. Sure, as adult citizens we may feel that there is equal opportunity available to all, but unless we have had an upbringing and education that has provided the right platform from which we can develop to our potentials, these opportunities are merely a front for equality. 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