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Summary sociology beliefs in society exam responses
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- AQA
sociology beliefs in society exam responses, 10 and 20 marker example
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“Some sociologists argue that religion acts as a force for social change. Itcan be used to challenge mainstream beliefs and values and inspire
protest against the existing social order.
However, other sociologists suggest that the relationship between religion
and social change is not straightforward, and that religion can prevent
social change”
Evaluate the view that religion acts as a force for social change:
One way in which religion acts as a force for social change is through new
religious movements (NRMs), arising as a break away from traditional
churches. NRMs have been developing increasingly since the 60s, seen in
sects much like the Moonies. These groups are thought to be on the rise
due to changing norms and values in a postmodern society, within which
there is greater individualisation. This societal change in attitudes has
brought about sects as individuals no longer poses the values necessary
to maintain as committed and devoted to faith as is imposed by the
church. Many NRMs allow for people to practice faith without the tough
constraints of that much like within churches, while still having a world
affirming religion to turn to. While also being used to establish or prevent
social change, being as religion can implement significant influence over
individuals and societal structures.
Religion was seen to bring about change in the NRM of the civil rights
movement in America, headed by figures like that of Martin Luther King,
who was inspired by Ghandi religiously motivated non-violence approach
to change. This regarded the proposal of seeking societal change through
protest, without resorting to violence or using violence as a means of
spreading a message and bringing about change. This movement is
particularly effective in demonstrating how religion acts as a force of
social change to challenge mainstream beliefs and values as it was used
to effectively oppose racism in America and bring about better equality of
rights. Martian Luther King acting as a charismatic leader to encourage
people to join the movement and delivering speeches of which had
religious context for purpose of better spreading his message in a non-
violent manner.
However, religion can also be used to bring about social change in a non-
positive light, seen in that of the aftereffects of 9/11. This horrific act,
being religiously motivated, caused for mass disruption to societal norms
across America and even internationally. This being in the instance of
increased airport security and mass surveillance within many Western
countries. Although being enacted to protect society, this measure,
implemented as consequence of the crime, instilled an increased sense of
fear within society, of which lives on today. Furthermore, this change in
societal norms and values brought about a massive change in views
toward Muslim individuals, with crime rates demonstrating a massive
increase in hate crimes toward these individuals. This left many believers
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