Theories of Religion - Postmodernism Flashcards

1
Q

What do postmodernists argue society has changed into?

A

Argue society has changed into a postmodern society

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2
Q

What do postmodernists argue has happened to religion in a postmodern society?

A

Decline in traditional religious institutions

Religious pluralism

Religion is more individualised

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3
Q

In the past what did traditional religious institutions claim?

A

Traditional religious institutions like the Church, claimed a monopoly of truth

claiming their religion offers the only truth and everybody should believe it

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4
Q

What do postmodernists refer to traditional religions as in a postmodern society?

A

In a postmodern society, traditional religions are meta-narratives (big stories)

-people question their claim to truth

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5
Q

What has the loss of faith in meta-narratives led to?

A

Led to a ‘crisis in meaning’ with growing numbers of people turning to alternatives such as New Age Movements to fill this ‘vacuum of meaning’

e.g. crystal therapy
Reiki
colour therapy

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6
Q

What is religious pluralism?

A

Many different religions to choose from

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7
Q

What do postmodernists argue about truth?

A

Argue that truth is relative

There is no longer one dominant religion offering one ‘truth’ instead there are many different religions offering different ‘truths’ and it is down to the individual to choose what they believe in

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8
Q

What do postmodernists argue religion is now part of?

A

Religion is now part of our consumption - we purchase religion like any other product

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9
Q

What do postmodernists mean by ‘spiritual shoppers’?

A

Individuals shopping around for a religion that suits our personal tastes and identities

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10
Q

What has religious pluralism led to?

A

Religious pluralism has led to competition between religions, which undermines their credibility

reduces how much we believe in each religion because they are all acting like businesses

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11
Q

What has reducing religion to a commodity led to?

A

Makes religion less significant and individuals become less committed

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12
Q

What does it mean for religion to be individualised?

A

Tailored to the needs and wishes of individuals

Individuals choose beliefs that work for them in their personal lives

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13
Q

What does it mean for religion to be syncretic?

A

Religion is no longer ‘pure’

We no longer follow just one religion, instead we ‘pick n mix’ different religions according to our personal identities and lives

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