Evaluate functionalist views on the role and functions of religion today (33)

The first 200 words of this essay...

Evaluate functionalist views on the role and functions of religion today (33)

Functionalists explain that if everyone believes the same thing in society then this creates consensus, therefore there can be no arguments which then creates stability. Another function is that religion gives people a sense of identity and belonging, for example if you follow a religion you belong to this religion therefore you have a sense of identity and any kind of attack on this religion feels like an attack on them.

The function of religion is to reinforce the importance of society and aid individuals' integration into the community. For example, Anfield is idolised and worshiped and before and England matches the national anthem is always played, when people are singing the song it really means something to be British because everyone always sings this with emotion.

Religion also promotes social order, and also backs up important statutory laws on theft and murder among others. Parsons argues there is a clear link between religion, morality, norms and stautue laws. For example the 10 commandments one of them being thou shall not commit adultery demands famlies stay together, also Jesus gospel teachings. Through socialisation