Karl Marx' Conflict Theory and Emile Durkheim's Functional Theory

4 important questions on Karl Marx' Conflict Theory and Emile Durkheim's Functional Theory

When is there social order according to the conflict theory?

  • When there is a balance of power between groups.
  • If one group is strong enough to dominate the other groups.

Why do conflicts strengthen the internal cohesion of religious groups?

Because (1) it intensifies feelings of solidarity and (2) a collective enemy makes group members aware of their shared convictions.

What is the problem with the conflict theory? Name 3 critique points.

  1. It only sees disharmony and imbalances. It makes it difficult to explain social cohesion.
  2. It stresses that all human behaviour is determined by self-interest and ignores altruistic motives (reductionism).
  3.  Human interests are only understood in economic terms (reductionism).
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Why has Karl Marx never become very influential in religion?

Probably because Karl Marx has never written anything solely dedicated to religion in a systematic way. 

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