Beliefs in society

Outline and explain two reasons for the decline in church attendance in Britain.

Read Item C (item written for this paper). Item C: Since the 1960s many new religious movements have appeared, ranging from world-rejecting sects to world-affirming groups offering spiritual techniques for success. Applying material from Item C, analyse two reasons for the growth of new religious movements.

Read Item D (item written for this paper). Item D: Functionalists see religion as a source of social solidarity and shared values. Marxists and feminists argue that religion maintains inequality, while others argue that religion can be a force for social change. Applying material from Item D and your knowledge, evaluate the view that religion acts as a conservative force in society.