Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 206 words written
How Durkheim's idea of Sacred and profane be used to understand the contemporary society?
Opening · a definition
In 'The elementary forms of religious life' Durkheim argued that all societies divide the world into 2 categories - sacred & profane.
Body · points
Religion is based upon this division - it is a unified system of beliefs and practices related to sacred things - things that are set apart and forbidden.
Profane are mundane, day-to-day things. Anything that is not sacred is profane.
Durkheim saw religion as worship of the society. Sacred and the rituals and forms of collective worship associated with it act as a mean to unify the group and promote social solidarity.
It helps reinforce the collective conscience and order.
In the modern society, we see a 'secular' religion emerging.
Watching sports is an example of some form of collective worship. The trophy or World Cup is seen as sacred.
Similarly, national pride and patriotism are sacred values. The united grief of all Indians in event of terrorist attacks or natural disasters also reinforces the collective conscience.
At the same time, 'sacred' value of traditional religion is still very strong as seen by demands for online darshan, Aastha TV, live streaming on App.
Close · a summary
Thus, sacred and profane can help understand what are the values upheld by any contemporary society, and how they are reinforced.