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Ideology, Science and Religion (Is science a belief system? (Polanyi…
Ideology, Science and Religion
What is an ideology?
Sociologists use term ideology in religion to demonstrate how beliefs systems relate to distribution of power in society.
Ideology- set of ideas that aim to legitimate or justify the position of powerful groups in society.
Marxists and Feminists argue religions an ideology working to benefit capitalist ruling class and for men.
Science critics
Critics of science argue its progress and priorities reflect ideology and interests of powerful groups.
Many advances in science have been driven by the need of powerful groups to justify inequalities in wealth and power.
Marx and ideology
Marx claimed ideology was a false picture of society imposed by the ruling class. Ruling class ideologies needed by ruling class making unfair system appear fair and legitimate. Only ruling class who have an ideology as they need to create illusions.
Gramsci
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Ruling class ideas become the 'common sense of age' because other values aren't taken seriously. People are reluctant to question 'common sense' as all think it's the right thing. As no one questions the ruling class' right to rule the ruling class ideology becomes the norm and accepted in social life aspects- religion, law, education = false class consciousness.
Althusser
Ideological state apparatus- View that not everything is controlled by the state but everything works in the interests of it (ruling class).
ISA's tool of capitalism used to justify, maintain and produce class inequalities. Claiming religion transmits and reproduces ideology about what it means to be working class, middle class, etc. and what everyone's place in society should be.
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Science
Gamm argues Darwin's theory of evolution was used in an ideological way by supporters of British Empire to justify British Colonialism.
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Postmodernism
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Metanarratives- grand theory, e.g. Marxism, Functionalists.
Many people grown disillusioned with both science and religion - believe science creates as many problems as it solves (global warming/environmental destruction/nuclear bombs).
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Is Sociology a Science?
Sociology is a science- evidence backing up theories, research gives quantitative data. Valid, Representative, reliable.
Sociology isn't a science- Not always facts and evidence, sometimes theory. Based on opinion - preconceived ideas, no core values, some ideas/theories conflict.