Durkheim and Religion

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Durkheim and Religion
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Key Points

• All religions are based on something that is
  objectively real that ordinary believers cannot
  understand.
• Religion emerges from collective effervescence.
• Religion allows a group to recognize itself as a
  group. Religion is the symbolic form of the
  collective.
• Magic is different from religion in that it is
  directed at private rather than communal ends.
• Sacred aims are necessary for human flourishing
  to take place.
• A secular or civil religion based on moral
  individualism will replace traditional religion.

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Discussion Questions

• According to Durkheim religion is a symbolic
  representation of the society in which it exists.
  To worship God is really to worship ourselves.
• Do you agree or disagree with Durkheim? Why?
• What evidence do you see for or against this
  notion?

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Key Terms

• Totemism religious belief and practice based on
  the totema sacred object or creature that serves
  as a collective emblem of the group
• Profane that which people define as an ordinary
  element of everyday life
• Sacred that which people set apart as
  extraordinary, inspiring awe and reverence

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The Story According to Durkheim
Social Identity (In vs Out Group)
Collective Activities
Collective Effervescence
Social/Group Ideals
Group Name
Society/Religion
Object/Animal Association
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What Does Religion Consist of?

• Beliefs that form around and express the sacred.
• Rites and rituals developed around sacred objects
  that help people experience the divine and
  proscribe holy acts.
• A moral community such as a church that provides
  a space for collective worship of the sacred
  which enforces the norms and rules of the
  believing society.

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Functions of Religion

• Provides answers to the unknown.
• Creates social cohesion.
• Provides social control over deviance.
• Fosters or retards social change.