Theories of Religion by Mircea Eliade and Emile Durkheim
TASK
Describe the theories of religion of two of the following thinkers, compare them with each other and discuss their contribution to the discipline of the history of religion: Émile Durkheim and Mircea Eliade.
Reference book:
Nine Theories of Religion,Daniel Pals.(I don't have this book,please find the book by yourself)
the book content
Introduction --
1. Animism and magic / E.B. Tylor and J.G. Frazer --
2. Religion and personality / Sigmund Freud --
3. Society as sacred / Émile Durkheim --
4. Religion as alienation / Karl Marx --
5. A source of social action / Max Weber --
6. The verdict of religious experience / William James --
7. The reality of the sacred / Mircea Eliade --
8. Society's "construct of the heart" / E.E. Evans-Pritchard --
9. Religion as cultural system / Clifford Geertz --
10. Conclusion.
Theories of Religion by Mircea Eliade and Emile Durkheim
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Theories of Religion by Mircea Eliade and Emile Durkheim
Introduction
Perhaps religion is the most common denominator in all aspects human life. The theoretical study of religion is one of the most advanced fields of study. Several researchers and theorists have sought to explain the different phenomenon surrounding religion. Religion as a social phenomenon is one the branches of religious studies. Other branches of study include economic and political views of religion. Under each of these studies, there are in-depth conversations and theories developed by significant scholars in history. Ludwig Feuerbach and Karl Marx share economic perspectives of religion. The two scholars describe religion as a projection of human’s wants and needs (Stusberg, 2010, p. 224). There are however several instances that the scholars strongly differ in their positions on religion. Mircea Eliade and Emilie Durkheim are two early scholars in the field of religion. Each of the two scholars established a series of books and journals detailing their views on religion. Durkheim is popularly known for his structural theory that seeks to explain the history of religion. The latter is just one of the several arguments and explanations developed by Durkheim, with the view of determining the truth about humanity's obsession with religion. Mircea Eliade, a writer and philosopher, is described as one of the leading interpreter and theorist of religious experience. Mircea Eliade is credited for insightful contribution to the field of religion through theories like Eternal Return, Hierophanies, and several other books. Both theorists have made significant contributions to religious studies. Consequently, their views have increased the rift of understanding on religious explanations. This research aims to explore religious theories by Mircea Eliade and Emile Durkheim, and present a comparison of the views expressed.
Description
According to Durkheim, a religious system is best described as primitive if it exists in a society that lacks the simplest form of organization, and explaining the religious system does not require any further reference from previous forms of religion. Durkheim maintains that religious studies should commence from the basics since such an approach offers an opportunity to learn more about humanity and gaining insight into the religious nature of man (Pals, 2000, p. 49).
By arguing that religion is a manifestation of mankind, Durkheim indicates that religion is a social form of expression. Fundamentally, he establishes that religion is made of two primary things; rituals and beliefs. When these two things are accepted in society and used to create harmonious living in the best version of it, they also reshape one's mentality. Durkheim states that mankind assumes two forms as religious beings. As an individual, man represents a being whose foundation is grounded in his body and his possible activities restrained within a particular circle of provision (Pals, 2000, p. 128). As a social being, man is a manifestation of intellect and morality in the society. From a religious perspective, Durkheim is convincing by indi...
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