Sociological Perspectives on Religion Quiz

What is one of the major functions of religion according to functionalism?

• Reinforcing social unity and stability

• Promoting social inequality

• Encouraging religious conflict

• Discouraging social interaction

According to conflict theory, religion can:

• Promote social equality

• Serve as an agent of social control

• Reinforce social inequality

• Enhance psychological well-being

Symbolic interactionism focuses on:

• The economic impact of religion

• How individuals interpret their religious experiences

• The role of religion in social conflict

• The macro aspects of religion

Which sociologist's work emphasized the functions of religion for society?

• Émile Durkheim

• Karl Marx

• Max Weber

• Herbert Spencer

Religion can enhance psychological well-being by:

• Being a source of comfort in times of distress

• Promoting social inequality

• Discouraging social interaction

• Encouraging religious conflict

According to conflict theory, religion can lead the poor to:

• Revolt against the bourgeoisie

• Accept their fate

• Seek higher education

• Improve their economic status

Which perspective emphasizes that beliefs and practices are not sacred unless regarded as such?

• Structuralism

• Symbolic interactionism

• Conflict theory

• Functionalism

What is a potential negative consequence of religion according to conflict theory?

• Promoting social unity

• Reinforcing gender inequality

• Encouraging scientific inquiry

• Enhancing physical health

Which religious symbol is associated with Islam?

• Cross

• Star of David

• Lotus flower

• Crescent moon and star

What role did religion play in the Southern civil rights movement?

• It was irrelevant to the movement

• It promoted racial segregation

• It discouraged social change

• It motivated activists like Martin Luther King Jr.