Understanding Religion's Social Function
The first page delves into the functionalist perspective on religion and its role in society. Durkheim's analysis of religious practices and their social implications forms the cornerstone of this understanding.
Definition: Social solidarity refers to the feeling of belonging to one group, achieved through shared norms and values.
Example: The Ten Commandments serve as religious guidelines that have influenced secular laws and social order.
Highlight: Religion functions as 'social cement' by binding people together through shared beliefs and practices.
Vocabulary: Totemism refers to the worship of sacred objects totems that symbolize both the clan and divine spirit.
Quote: "When they worship the totem, they are actually worshipping society."
The page explains how religion contributes to social stability through various mechanisms, including secondary socialization, value consensus, and collective consciousness. Durkheim's study of Australian Aboriginal tribes provides a framework for understanding how religious practices create and maintain social bonds.