THE COMPARATIVE IMPLICATIONS OF FUNCTIONAL AND CONFLICT THEORY AS THEORETICAL FRAME–WORKS FOR RELIGIOUS RESEARCH AND RELIGIOUS DECISION MAKING.

The purpose of this paper is to summarize the basic tenets of Parsons' functional theory and Marx's conflict theory as the author believes Parsons and Marx meant their theories to be used. Each theory is out- lined and critiqued, paying particular attention to their implications for religious decision makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]