Nelaturu Sreekanth ReddyAIR 151 · CSE 2024 · 214 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
According to Emile Durkheim, religion is a unified system of beliefs and practices on the basis of Sacred and Profane.
Body · points
Difference between evolutionist and functionalist understanding of religion
Close · a summary
| Evolutionist | Functionalist |
|---|---|
| → Tries to understand origin and evolution of religion over a period of time. | → Tries to understand the functions of religion for the benefit of the society. |
| → Adopts linear and historical approach in understanding progression | → Adopts synchronic approach in understanding functions of religion. |
| → Understand changes in the religion based on change in times. | → Understand changes in the religion based on change in needs of society. |
| → [E.B. Tylor] talked about the evolution Animism → polytheism ↓ Monotheism | → [Emile Durkheim] and [Parsons] talked about the functions of religion |
| → Evolutionists employ historical analysis (or Indology) to understand the evolution | → Functionalists looks into what aspects of religion provides stability to society. |
| → Criticised for taking up a linear progression approach to understand complex religion | → Criticised for not considering the ills of religion such as Sati, animal sacrifice. |
Both these perspectives provide valuable insights to understand complex nature of religion from multiple angles.