SOC 1502 – Introduction to Sociology

University of the People

Learning Journal Unit 6

 Émile Durkheim (1858—1917), a pivotal figure in sociology, emphasized the distinct

reality of society, which emerges from the interaction of individual consciences to form a new,

synthetic reality greater than its parts. This reality, according to Durkheim, cannot be reduced to

biological or psychological explanations and must be understood sociologically. He introduced

the concept of "social facts," elements of collective life that exist independently of and exert

influence on the individual. Durkheim's methodology for studying these social facts laid the

groundwork for his influential works on social labor, sociological methods, suicide, and religious

life. His approach to sociology was to treat it as a science of institutions, aiming not just to

reconstruct historical forms of civilization but to explain the present human condition.

Durkheim's work spans across the philosophy of religion, social theory, epistemology, and more,

contributing significantly to the understanding of the social construction of knowledge, morality,

and modernity (Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, n.d.).

In "The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life," Durkheim (1964) explores primitive

religion to understand the essence of religious life, asserting that all religions, regardless of their

complexity or ideality, are equally valid expressions of human existence. He argues that

primitive religions, due to their simplicity and uniformity, provide a clearer view of the

fundamental aspects of religion. Durkheim posits that religion originates from societal needs and

reflects an essential and permanent aspect of humanity. He suggests that the study of primitive

religions can reveal the underlying representations and conceptions common to all religions,

thereby offering insights into the nature of religion itself. Durkheim's analysis is grounded in the

belief that religious phenomena, including beliefs and rites, are expressions of social realities and

collective experiences (Durkheim, 1964).

 Comparing Durkheim's insights with the reading materials for this unit, we can observe a

complementary perspective. Little (2016) discusses the role of religion and education in society,

touching upon how these institutions contribute to social cohesion, moral education, and the

transmission of culture and knowledge, themes that resonate with Durkheim's analysis of religion

as a fundamental social institution. Durkheim's emphasis on the social origins and functions of

religion aligns with the sociological perspectives presented by Little (2016), which also highlight

the significance of social institutions in shaping human behavior and societal norms.

In light of these readings, it's evident that Durkheim's theories on religion and education

continue to be foundational in understanding the social structures that shape human behavior and

society. His work underscores the importance of collective practices in maintaining social order

and the role of institutions like religion and education in the socialization process.
References:

Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). Émile Durkheim. https://iep.utm.edu/durkheim/

Durkheim, E. (1964). The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life. George Allen & Unwin LTD.

http://www.gutenberg.org/files/41360/41360-h/41360-h.htm#Page_23

Little, W. (2016). Introduction to Sociology -- 2nd Canadian Edition. BCcampus.

https://opentextbc.ca/introductiontosociology2ndedition/