SociologyChapter 14 Education and Religion Preview Section 1: The Sociology of EducationThe Sociology of Education Section 2: The Sociology of ReligionThe Sociology of Religion Chapter Wrap-Up

SociologyChapter 14 Read to Discover How do the views of functionalist, conflict, and interactionist sociologists differ concerning education? What are some of the current issues in American education? Section 1: The Sociology of Education

SociologyChapter 14 Functionalist—schools help maintain the stability and smooth operation of society Conflict—the educational system serves to limit the potential of certain people and groups to gain power and social rewards Interactionist—students’ educational achievements and success are shaped in part by teacher-student interactions Section 1: The Sociology of Education

SociologyChapter 14 Question What are some of the current issues in American education? Section 1: The Sociology of Education

SociologyChapter 14 Section 1: The Sociology of Education Current Issues in American Education Educational reform Educational alternatives Violence in the schools Bilingual education To address a decline in the level of quality of education; has led to some improvements Provides school choice through vouchers, charter schools, and options such as homeschooling Has led to the use of security measures, zero tolerance policies, and conflict- resolution programs Controversial, particularly in states with many Hispanics; has led to “English Only” movement

SociologyChapter 14 Read to Discover What basic societal needs does religion serve? What are the distinctive features of religion in American society? Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Social Cohesion—strengthening of bonds among people Social Control—encourages conformity to the norms of society Emotional Support—to provide emotional support during difficult times Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Question What different belief systems are found around the world? Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Involves meditation and purity of thought and action; examples: Buddhism, Shintoism, Confucianism Shamanism: Shamanism: Spirits communicate with one person (shaman); shamans can heal sick, predict future. Totemism: Totemism: Kinship between humans and animals/natural objects—totems Polytheism: Multiple gods; example: Hinduism; usually one powerful god and lesser gods Monotheism: Belief in one god; examples: Judaism, Islam, Christianity; organized structure, priesthood, rituals ANIMISM: Spirits active in human life but not worshipped; rituals thank or win spirits’ good will ETHICALISM: Set of moral principles with sacred quality THEISM: Belief in god or gods; God is divine power worthy of worship Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Question What are the distinctive features of religion in American society? Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Free from persecution Culturally diverse Highly valued but may be losing influence Separation of church and state Many believe in God but fewer are affiliated with religious organizations and even fewer attend services Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Most Americans are monotheistic Protestants are most numerous, but the Roman Catholic Church is the largest single organization Participation is rising in fundamentalist and evangelical Christian groups Section 2: The Sociology of Religion

SociologyChapter 14 Chapter Wrap-Up Understanding Main Ideas 1.Compare and contrast the functionalist, conflict, and interactionist views of educational issues such as tracking and the transmission of culture. 2.What steps have educational authorities taken to curb violence and other criminal activities in schools? 3.Why do you think religions differ from society to society? 4.What are the major features of religion in the United States?