1. T HEORIES OF R ELIGION

2. F UNCTIONALISM Essential function of religion is to provide through sacred symbols a mirror for members of society to see themselves. See Sec. 2 “Why Religion?”

3. C ONFLICT T HEORY Religion works to either inhibit or encourage social change. See Karl Marx and Max Weber

4. S YMBOLIC I NTERACTIONISM Religious beliefs, rituals, and ideas tell people the difference between the sacred and the profane and provide stability and security in a changing and uncertain existence. “There are no atheists in foxholes.”

5. S EC. 4: R ELIGION IN THE U.S.

6. D EVELOPMENT OF R ELIGION IN A MERICA Religious Freedom Puritans viewed themselves as a religious example for the world to follow and admire. “City upon a hill” Framers of the Constitution were leery of connecting religion and government.

7. S ECULARIZATION Process through which the sacred loses influence over society. Only 57% in 2001 claimed religion was important to them. However, some studies argue only 8% of Americans define themselves as without religious preference. According to research, 96% of American’s believe in God or a deity.

8. R ELIGIOUS P REFERENCES Most recent figures I have say: 58% of Americans are protestant (20% baptist) 25% of Americans are Catholic. Roughly 60 million are members of the Roman Catholic Church.

9. F UNDAMENTALISM IN A MERICA The resistance of secularization and the rigid adherence to traditional religious beliefs, rituals, and doctrines. Most are politically conservative Science vs. the Bible Emphasis on social service (the Great Commission) Literal truth of the Bible. “Born-Again” Strong belief in Revelations Speaking in tongues???

10. F UNDAMENTALISM IS STRONG TODAY Because: World is out of control, the end is near! Emphasis on warmth, love, and caring for people that “need” it. Less strict than mainline churches. More sacred. Less traditional Fundamentalism is in all Protestant organizations, but they are Predominately found in Mormons, Assemblies of God, the Seventh-Day Adventists, Baptists, and Jehovah’s Witnesses.

11. R ELIGION, C LASS, AND P OLITICS Based on income: High Class – Presbyterians, Episcopalians, and Jews. Middle Class – Lutherans, Catholics, and Methodists. Lower Class – Baptists Higher class attends church more and very devoted to rituals. Higher class are usually Republicans Middle-Lower Class usually Democrats.

12. R ELIGION, S CIENCE AND S OCIETY Examine humanity’s relationship to the world. Debate over creation and evolution. What can be taught in schools?