Question

Know how religion enforces social control.

Answer 1

Religion functions as a means of social control by establishing norms, upholding societal values, and reinforcing the status quo. It dictates acceptable behavior socially and morally, while places of worship socialize individuals in the traditions and expectations of their faith.

Step-by-step explanation:

Religion serves as a fundamental avenue for social control within societies by creating norms that dictate acceptable behavior and consequences for violations. For example, the Ten Commandments, found in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, establish rules that prohibit theft, murder, adultery, dishonesty, and foster social behaviors such as respect and honor. These religious laws attract social sanctioning when breached, resulting in disapproval from the religious community and potential divine retribution.

Moreover, religion influences social behavior by establishing social norms and expectations, including dress codes, marriage practices, and sexual behavior. Places of worship not only provide communal support and networking opportunities but also teach participants how to interact with religious symbols and conduct themselves according to their faith's doctrine. Significant socialization occurs here, perpetuating a shared set of societal values.

The history of religion as a tool for social control can also be seen during the period of enslavement in the United States, where slave masters utilized religion to maintain authority and justify social hierarchies. Controlled religious instruction was applied to reinforce the subordination of slaves and uphold the status quo.

Answer 2

Religion enforces social control through defining behaviors and consequences, providing social support, and reinforcing social norms.

Step-by-step explanation:

Religion enforces social control through various means:

1. Defining acceptable behaviors and punishments: Religious beliefs help define behaviors and establish consequences, including supernatural ones. For example, the Ten Commandments in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism prohibit theft, murder, adultery, dishonesty, etc., with potential punishment from God.
2. Providing social support and cohesion: Religion offers social networking, support, and a sense of community. It fosters group interaction and integration, but may also create an 'in-group' vs. 'out-group' dynamic.
3. Reinforcing social norms: Religion reinforces societal norms like appropriate dress, following the law, and regulating sexual behavior. It upholds gender norms and plays a role in socialization and passing down values and customs.

Complete Question:

From which ways religion enforces social control on the society?