3. Functionalism
• Empirical approach
– Studies observable data
• Not what religion is, but what religion does
– Nix v. Hedden decision
• How does religion function?
• What purpose does it serve?
4. Functions of Religion
• Karl Marx: Economic
• Emile Durkheim: Sociological
• Sigmund Freud: Psychological
6. Religion as ideology
“Religious distress is at the same time the
expression or real [economic] distress and
the protest against real distress. Religion is
the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart
of a heartless world, just as it is the spirit of
a spiritless situation. It is the opium of the
people. The abolition of religion as the
illusory happiness of the people is required
for their real happiness.”
7. Religion as ideology
• An expression of class struggle.
• An illusion
• Chief purpose is to provide reasons for
why oppressors are in charge
• Alienation to God, mirrors alienation of
labor
• Must be dismissed