Assessing the Claim that Religion is a Conservative Force...

Assessing the Claim that Religion is a Conservative Force The view that religion acts as a conservative force in society is usually linked mainly with the Marxist approach. Marx argued that the bourgeoisie (the ruling class) used religious ideas as part of the ‘ideological state apparatus’, this referring to those institutions that served to conceal the capitalist exploitation of the proletariats (the working class) and at the same time make them believe, under false pretences, that society functioned in a fair and meritocratic way. This Marxist approach can be identified within many religious hymns; this Victorian hymn is one of many which highlight the Marxist view; â€Å"The rich man in his†¦show more content†¦Even those that are right at the bottom of society, often referred to as ‘untouchables’, had an incentive to put up with their lot uncomplainingly, in expectation of being one rung up in the caste ladder in their next life. Although the caste was outlawed by the British under colonial rule in India, it still persisted, especially in more rural areas, and the length of time or which is lasted is an accredited example of how religious ideas can act as a conservative force in society. Marx also quoted that religion was the â€Å"opium of the people†, meaning that religion acted like a drug helping people to cope with pain and suffering in their life brought about by exploitation. If religion acts as opium, deadening the pain, then this is also helping to stop social change, as the masses will have some comfort from their suffering and be able to put up with it. It could be argued that Durkheim, who focuses on a functionalist perspective, also views religion as a conservative force. 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