Durkheim

Question 1

Sacred objects symbolise society’s values

Answer 1

In ‘The Elementary Forms of Religious Life’ (Aborigines study) Durkheim argues that religion divides objects and people into the sacred and profane (non sacred).

Sacred objects/symbols are treated with special respect and represent the values of society e.g. the crucifix, a sacred object that inspires love and devotion from individuals.
Religion therefore consists of reverence for the central values of society. Every time a religious ceremony takes place the group affirms its belief in the central values which make social life possible.

A03: Small scale and pre-literate society, not relevant

Question 2

Religion is a conservative force

Answer 2

In the collective worship of sacred things a group is bound together. Communal worship and the practice of rituals raise people’s awareness of their common situation and strengthens the bonds between society’s members.
Durkheim said religion is a cohesive force and acts as a ‘social cement’ or conservative force, keeping society unified, stable and preventing social change from taking place.

A03: Dysfunctional force. Huntington-> conflict

Question 3

Social Solidarity

Answer 3

All societies must have a collective consciousness for survival; this is a social prerequisite as most people must agree on the norms and values for society to function. Collective worship and ritual have a crucial social significance, both in reinforcing the collective consciousness and in unifying the group. By worshipping sacred symbols people are worshipping society. They are reaffirming their commitment to group values and beliefs.

Without a collective conscience (shared values, morals) there would be no social order, social control, social solidarity or cooperation. There would be no society. Therefore, religion is a force of social solidarity

A03: Religion is imposed on people Marxist

Question 4

Rites of passage

Answer 4

Key changes in life stages e.g. birth, marriage and death are marked by religious ceremonies which publicly state the individual’s new status. These life stages are potentially disruptive and so the function of religion is to give encouragement and support to individuals as they progress through life.

A03: Nowadays rites of passage have no religious element done for social/cultural reasons