"Religion is an agent of social control and thus strengthens social order."
~Emile Durkheim
"Religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich."
~Napoleon Bonaparte
In the Christian tradition, the Ten Commandments are probably the most famous set of rules for moral behavior. In the Catholic Tradition we also spell out things like the Spiritual & Corporal Works of Mercy. The Beatitudes are another set of guideposts for Christian living as well.
People viewing religion from the vantage point of a sociological perspective will probably not see the supernatural aspect of faith. They see it primarily as a function within societal structures. Subsequently, depending upon the analysis of the sociologist, the religious structures and doctrines will be viewed in a positive or negative light in regard to the consequences on different groups of people. It seems that the secular culture in modern society tends to take a more negative view of religion than previous generations.
I pose this question as food for thought. Based upon Emile Durkheim's thinking, would it not benefit secular society to be a staunch supporter of religion since it helps maintain and strengthen social order? Why are so many political leaders, celebrities, and others intent upon bringing chaos into society by belittling people of faith? What do they have to gain by societal upheaval?
~Emile Durkheim
"Religion is what keeps the poor from murdering the rich."
~Napoleon Bonaparte
In the Christian tradition, the Ten Commandments are probably the most famous set of rules for moral behavior. In the Catholic Tradition we also spell out things like the Spiritual & Corporal Works of Mercy. The Beatitudes are another set of guideposts for Christian living as well.
People viewing religion from the vantage point of a sociological perspective will probably not see the supernatural aspect of faith. They see it primarily as a function within societal structures. Subsequently, depending upon the analysis of the sociologist, the religious structures and doctrines will be viewed in a positive or negative light in regard to the consequences on different groups of people. It seems that the secular culture in modern society tends to take a more negative view of religion than previous generations.
I pose this question as food for thought. Based upon Emile Durkheim's thinking, would it not benefit secular society to be a staunch supporter of religion since it helps maintain and strengthen social order? Why are so many political leaders, celebrities, and others intent upon bringing chaos into society by belittling people of faith? What do they have to gain by societal upheaval?
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