Mind map

Phil HL - Emile Durkheim - Functionalist Theory

taja.barber English

Map content

For
- atheist churches: benefits of religion are recognised
  - therefore it is not needed.
Against
- what about disharmony caused by religion (Northern Ireland)
- sociologists argue society can do without religion
- Durkheim based views on small tribal societies
  - not representative of all societies
- what is sacred and what is profane differs per person
What is it?
- religion maintains social cohesion & harmony
- The world is divided into:
  - The sacred
    - God
    - objects
      - ordinary objects create powerful feelings
        respects
        awe
    - scriptures
  - The profane
    - mundane every day things
- Totems: representative symbols,
  - Represent the collective conscience
    - shared values, beliefs, norms
  - Totemism: basic aboriginal religions
    - societies are divided into clans, each with a totem
    - Totem represents society
      - worshiping a symbol is easier than worshiping the society
- Social cohesion
  - an orderly society maintained by people following norms (the collective conscience)
  - religion
    - offers shared mentality & morality
    - a common identity to unite under
    - although collective ideas may change, the need for religion doesnt
    - is embedded in the individual
    - offers a sense of purpose
      - explanations & comfort
Religion maintains social cohesion and harmony