Functionalist functions of religion

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5 Terms

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Durkheim (1915; 1962) - three major functions of religion

  1. Social cohesion

  2. Social control

  3. Sense of purpose

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Durkheim - key features of religion

  • Sacred/profane distinction

  • Totems

  • Collective rituals/practices surrounding the sacred

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The profane

  • No special significance

  • Mundane

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The sacred

  • Set apart

  • Forbidden

  • Inspire awe and fear

  • Surrounded by taboos or prohibitions

  • Unite believers into a single moral community

  • Symbols of something representing a higher power (e.g. cross, star of David)

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Worshipping the sacred = worshiping society

  • The only thing that could evoke such feelings is society

    • Therefore worshiping sacred things is actually worshipping society