Active learning ideas
Does religion keep things the same or change them? This topic explores religion as a 'conservative force' (maintaining the status quo) versus a 'force for social change'. Students will study Weber's famous thesis on the Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism, alongside modern examples like Liberation Theology in Latin America.
Activity 01
Students are given 'capital' and must follow Calvinist rules (work hard, don't spend on luxury, reinvest). They see how these religious values naturally lead to the growth of a business.
Under what conditions does religion promote social change?
Activity 02
One side argues religion is a 'spiritual gin' (Lenin) that keeps people down. The other uses the Civil Rights Movement to show religion as a tool for justice.
How did Calvinism contribute to the rise of capitalism?
Activity 03
Stations feature different movements (e.g., the Iranian Revolution, the New Christian Right). Students must decide if each was a force for 'progress' or 'tradition'.
What role do religious fundamentalist movements play in the modern world?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Weber said Calvinism 'caused' capitalism.
He said it was a 'elective affinity', the two worked well together. Using a 'puzzle piece' analogy helps students see that Calvinism was just one necessary factor among many.
Fundamentalism is only found in Islam.
Fundamentalism exists in almost all religions, including Christianity and Hinduism. A comparative study of 'fundamentalist traits' helps students see it as a global sociological phenomenon.
Methods used in this brief
Ideology, Science, and Religion
An exploration of different belief systems, comparing religious, scientific, and political ideologies. Students will analyse how these systems claim truth and influence societal norms.
8 methodologies
Secularisation and Religious Diversity
Students will evaluate the secularisation thesis and examine the changing nature of religious participation in the UK and globally. The rise of new religious movements and New Age spirituality will be assessed.
8 methodologies