Religion — functionalist perspective
Functionalists argue religion serves essential functions: creating social cohesion through shared beliefs, providing moral guidelines, reinforcing social values, and offering emotional comfort.
Real World
After the 9/11 attacks, church attendance in the US surged dramatically, illustrating Parsons's argument that religion stabilises society and binds communities during crises.
Exam Focus
Name at least two functionalists (e.g. Durkheim and Parsons) with distinct points — generic 'functionalists argue' answers rarely reach Level 3.
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