The essay expounds on Durkheim's theory regarding the origin of religion, its functions, the role of religion in the evolution of human knowledge, observations about Totemic religions, and critics of Durkheim's theory.
Knowledge emanates from religion, and that religion is sacred in society; therefore, man owes his knowledge to society, God, and religion. It is evident that man's attempts to understand religion, God, Totem, and nature lead to the advancement of knowledge from primitive to cognitive and scientific enlightenment. Durkheim's view on totemic religion does not apply to large modern societies but cannot be criticized without adequate research because they are based on personal observation. Religion functions as a man's connection to supernatural beings such as God and originates from human nature concerning moral and societal values.
Table of Contents
- The Origin of Religion
- Functions of Religion
- Collective Conscience of Shared Beliefs, Values, Norms, and Practices
- Explanation of Supernatural Existence and Respect Accorded to God
- Unified System of Beliefs and Practices
- The Role of Religion in the Evolution of Human Knowledge
- Observation on Totemic Religions
- Critiques of Durkheim's Work
Objectives and Key Themes
This text explores Émile Durkheim's theory of religion, examining its origins, functions, and role in the evolution of human knowledge. The text aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Durkheim's ideas, drawing on his work and that of other scholars.
- The socio-evolutionary origin of religion
- The functions of religion in society
- The relationship between religion and human knowledge
- The concept of the Totem and its role in Totemic religions
- Critiques of Durkheim's theory
Chapter Summaries
The text begins by exploring Durkheim's theory of the origin of religion, which posits that belief in supernatural beings arises from the interaction between non-conscious and conscious systems. Durkheim emphasizes the social and moral nature of humans, arguing that religion originates from this foundation. He further divides the world into sacred and profane, with sacred things representing society's values, morals, and religion.
The text then delves into the functions of religion, highlighting its role in promoting harmony and social cohesion. Durkheim sees religion as a positive force that enables society to function smoothly, creating a bond between humans and the supernatural. This bond, he argues, fosters a collective conscience of shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices.
Moving on to the role of religion in human knowledge, the text highlights Durkheim's view that religion serves as the source of intellectual and cognitive reasoning. This is supported by the notion that the knowledge of God is the beginning of wisdom. Durkheim believes that religion, through its influence on conscience, reasoning, and human thoughts, laid the groundwork for the development of science and technology.
The text concludes by examining Durkheim's observations on Totemic religions, focusing on Aboriginal societies. He suggests that these societies, divided into clans that worship totems, use these symbols to represent their origin and identity, reinforcing clan solidarity and a sense of belonging. Durkheim argues that Totemic rituals reinforce the collective conscience and maintain social integration, reminding clans of their shared values and morals.
Keywords
The primary focus of this text is on Durkheim's theory of religion, encompassing concepts such as the origin of religion, its functions in society, and its role in the evolution of human knowledge. The text also explores the concept of the sacred and profane, the collective conscience, and Totemic religions. Key themes include the relationship between society and religion, the role of symbolism, and the development of human thought and knowledge.
- Citation du texte
- Naff Kennedy Aineya (Auteur), 2016, Understanding Durkheim Theories, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1301649
