Read Item J below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 15 - 2020 - Paper 2

Religion can act as a transformative force in society by challenging existing norms and beliefs. For instance, figures like Martin Luther King Jr. utilized religious rhetoric to mobilize civil rights movements, showing how religion can inspire societal change. This perspective highlights the role of religion in social activism, providing ideological support that empowers individuals to advocate for social justice and change.

On the other hand, it's important to note the complexity of religion's role. Some sociologists argue that religion can serve to maintain the status quo, rather than instigate change. For example, certain religious institutions may oppose progressive reforms, thereby managing social order and resisting change. This suggests that while religion can encourage social movements, it may equally inhibit social change under specific contexts.

Additionally, the relationship between religion and social change can be seen as dialectical. While religion may catalyze change in one context, it may reinforce conservative values in another. This dual nature emphasizes that the impact of religion is not universally positive or negative; it is contingent on various factors including cultural context, institutional power, and individual agency.

In sum, while religion can indeed act as a force for social change, its role is multifaceted, requiring careful consideration of the various influences that shape its effects on society.