Secularization Theory: Evidence At The Macro-Level Of Society

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Sociology of Religion Final Exam

[Secularization Theory]

Supporting evidence at the Macro-level of society indicates that societal controls now rely on technological and legal means rather than moral decrees which would indicate the weakening of religion in societal power structures, while opposing evidence claims that an increase in fundamentalist and extremist groups have resulted political systems and warfare built around the concept of utilizing religion for political goals represents the opposite, as these organizations are returning to power. At the Meso-level, proponents point to the decline of regular church attendance over time as indicating an overall drop in religiosity to claim that religious organizations are gradually weakening. …show more content…
An example supporting this view is the historical connection between monarchs and religion, known as the "divine right of kings". By asserting that the royal line was connected to divinity, their rule was legitimated to the populace and thus was unquestionable. On the other hand, religious institutions have played a heavy role in social movements, such as the Civil Rights Movement, by serving as source of followers and resources that allow the movement to mobilize and develop influence in society. Seeking to change the status quo is the antithesis of Marx's view of religion, and thus detracts from his …show more content…
Through this, the beliefs of the upper and lower classes differ and result in two variations that serve the interests and needs of each group separately. An example that supports this thesis is the Calvinist theory of wealth as a sign from god spreading among the upper classes and resulting in behaviors that led to the widespread adoption of modern capitalism. Lower classes that would not have access to such resources would instead turn towards religious beliefs, such as those practiced by the Amish, that promoted spiritual health and moral

behavior over material resources. Religious organizations with rigid hierarchical structures, such as Catholicism, go against this view of religion. These organizations typically enforce the same beliefs across all social classes, rather than teaching opposing edicts to the rich and to the poor.

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