Author: Émile Durkheim
Synopsis
Durkheim studies religion as a social institution that separates the sacred from the profane and creates rituals through which communities affirm their collective identity. Religious symbols, in his account, represent society itself as well as supernatural beliefs.
Why It Matters to Sociology
The book strongly influenced the sociology and anthropology of religion. Its concepts of ritual, collective consciousness, symbolism, and social solidarity remain useful for studying religion, nationalism, public ceremonies, sports, and other forms of collective life.