Question:
1 Why did Durkheim find that the study and practice of religion was of critical important to society? 2. Summarize the integrative function of religion. 3. Summarize the feminist perspective on religion. paper should be in an essay form. Not more than 2 pages. Please include references
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Emile Durkheim, a French sociologist, believed that the study and practice of religion was of critical importance to society. He argued that religion plays a fundamental role in the functioning of society, both as a source of social cohesion and as a means of regulating social behavior.
Durkheim believed that religion serves an important integrative function in society, by providing a sense of unity and shared purpose among its members. He argued that religion creates a sense of social solidarity by establishing shared beliefs, values, and norms among individuals. This shared sense of purpose and belonging helps to bind society together, and creates a sense of moral order and stability. Additionally, Durkheim believed that religion provides a means of regulating social behavior, by providing a set of moral rules and guidelines that help to regulate the actions of individuals.
Durkheim’s perspective on the integrative function of religion has been influential in sociological and anthropological studies of religion. Many sociologists have argued that religion plays an important role in promoting social cohesion and stability, particularly in traditional and pre-modern societies. However, Durkheim’s perspective has also been criticized for its emphasis on the positive aspects of religion and for its neglect of the negative effects of religion, such as the promotion of inequality and oppression.
Feminist perspective on religion argue that religion has been used as a means of oppressing and marginalizing women throughout history. Feminists argue that religion has been used to justify patriarchal structures and to support the subordination of women. They also argue that religion has been used to justify the unequal distribution of power and resources, and to support the marginalization of women in the political, economic and social spheres.
Feminist scholars have also criticized the way in which religion is often portrayed as being inherently patriarchal and oppressive towards women. They argue that religion should be understood as a social construct that is shaped by historical and cultural factors, rather than as an eternal and unchanging truth. They also argue that religion should be understood as a site of struggle, where different groups of people compete for control over the meaning and interpretation of religious texts and practices.
In conclusion, Durkheim’s perspective on the importance of religion to society highlights the role of religion in promoting social cohesion and regulating social behavior. However, feminist perspective on religion argue that religion has been used as a means of oppressing and marginalizing women throughout history. It is essential to consider both perspectives in order to gain a more nuanced and complete understanding of the role of religion in society.
References
Durkheim, E. (1912). The Elementary Forms of Religious Life. New York: Free Press.
Smith, C. (1987). The Everyday World as Problematic: A Feminist Sociology. Boston: Northeastern University Press.
Berger, P. L. (1967). The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion. Garden City, NY: Anchor Books.
