Religion and Socialism - October session

In this second session we will look at Marx's own view on religion. Is religion always an 'opiate of the masses', a blinding ideology that stops revolutionary potential? Or is religion necessary in a painful world?

In the session, we'll be starting with Marx's famous "Opiate of the Masses" writing about religion. We'll go through the piece at the event, so don't worry too much about trying to understand every detail - but we encourage you to give it a go & read the piece through!

And some suggested further reading, if you want more ideas to come along with:

- "Socialism and Religion" by Lenin

- Chapter 6 of "Why Marx Was Right" by Terry Eagleton

Doors open from 6pm for a 6:30pm start.

________________________________________

What is the relationship between religion and socialism? Should there even be one? What can a largely secular movement take and learn from faith traditions? How can left wing and faith communities work together to improve society today?

Following on from the insightful panel session at this year’s Bristol Transformed, BT is starting a reading and discussion group along similar themes. Each month we will pursue a different set theme with the discussion based loosely around a choice of reading – Introductory, further and podcast options will be available to suit your expertise, interests and time constraints.

Over the course of the year we intend to cover the Marxist approach to religion, the history of how religious and leftwing political movements have influenced each other and start to consider what the modern left could learn from religious practices.

We welcome participation from all people: those of all faiths, all political beliefs and none are invited to join the discussion.

The sessions will mostly be run in a P4C (Philosophy for Communities) format which means that they are interactive and participatory with the content and direction of the session decided democratically.

Don’t worry if you’re worrying about managing to complete the reading. Do your best. Turning up and taking part is more important.