SOCI 120 Chapter Notes - Chapter 19: Christian Symbolism, Abusive Power And Control, Ten Commandments
Document Summary
People"s values are not just a matter of personal choice, they re ect the person"s social background, including religious af liation. Durkheim stated religion involves things that surpass the limits of our knowledge . Profane: included as an ordinary element of everyday life, understood in terms of everyday usefulness. Sacred: set apart as extraordinary, inspiring awe and reverence, reverently set apart. Religion: a social institution involving beliefs and practices based on recognizing the sacred: beliefs, practices (rituals, a moral community (church) does not imply morality. Setting apart sacred from profane is key in religious beliefs. Faith: belief based on personal conviction rather than on scienti c evidence. Totem: an object in the natural world collectively de ned as sacred; can become center piece of ritual. Religion preforms vital tasks, including hunting people and controlling behavior. Religion strengthens marriage by giving it (and family life) sacred meaning. People often turn to sacred symbols for comfort when facing danger and uncertainty.
