Sociology & You

Chapter 14: Religion

Chapter Overviews

Religion and Sociology Religion, as defined by Emile Durkheim, is a unified system of beliefs and practices concerned with sacred things. The sociological study of religion involves looking at a set of meanings attached to a world beyond human observation. Sociologists do not judge the validity of various religions, but study those aspects of religion that can be measured and observed in society—the social dimensions of religion.

Theoretical Perspectives Functionalists identify various social functions of religion: it gives formal approval to existing social arrangements, encourages a sense of unity, and provides a sense of understanding and belonging. Conflict theory focuses on how religion works to either inhibit or encourage social change. Symbolic interactionists believe that the symbolic meanings of religious traditions are used to guide everyday social interaction.

Religious Organization and Religiosity The major forms of religious organizations are churches, denominations, sects, and cults. The types of religious attitudes and behavior people display in their everyday lives are called religiosity. Religiosity can be analyzed in terms of five dimensions—belief, ritual, intellectual, experience, and consequences.

Religion in the United States Evidence is mixed concerning the relative importance of religion in the United States today, but studies show that many Americans tend to support traditional religious beliefs. Religious affiliation, social class, and political affiliation are all related. Religious fundamentalism has been on the rise over the last 20 years, fueled by such motives as the desire for stability in a confusing world or for a more purely sacred environment in contrast to a more secular society.