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Compare and contrast the six main sociological theories of religion as well as examining the way in which these theories are formed/based.
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| Submitted: Fri Oct 15 2004
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Compare and Contrast Sociological Theories of Religion This essay is going to compare and contrast the six main sociological theories of religion as well as examining the way in which these theories are formed/based. The main point Marx makes concerning religion is its function to control the proletariat. In capitalist society, the wealth of the bourgeoisie depends upon exploiting the proletariat. However, to prevent any rebellion the bourgeoisie need to impose two forms of control, violence, or the threat of violence, and values. Violence is the less satisfactory from of control, as it is difficult in the long term to maintain order solely through this. Furthermore, the use of violence lays bare any claim to legitimacy by the ruling class. Violence is used, where necessary, by the police and, in extreme situations, by the army. Those who are the recipients of violence are likely to be the marginalised that have the smallest stake...
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