The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life

The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life

The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life By Émile Durkheim In The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life , Émile Durkheim explores the social and collective aspects of religion. Durkheim investigates the origins and functions of religious beliefs, focusing particularly on totemism in Australian Aboriginal tribes. He argues that religion is not merely a set of beliefs or rituals but a system of social practices that reinforce societal cohesion. Through a detailed study of early religious forms, Durkheim contends that religion plays a critical role in the establishment and maintenance of social order. This seminal work is a foundational text in the sociology of religion, offering profound insights into the connections between religion, society, and human behavior.