Theories of religion

Substantive definitions- Focus on the content of religious belief, such as belief in God. Weeber defines religion as belief in superior power that is above nature and cannot be explained scientifically. This definition draws a clear line between religious & non-religious beliefs. Problem with this definition is that it leaves no room for beliefs that perform similar functions to religion but don't involve belief in God.

Functional definitions- Defines religion in terms of the social/ psychological functions it performs. Durkhiem defines religion in terms of contribution it makes to social intergration. 

Construction definitions- Take an interpretivits approach which foccuses on how members of society define religion. Not possible to produce a single definition for religion. Social contructionists are interested in how religion is constructed and do not assume religion always involves belief in a God. 

• The sacred and profane- key feature of religion is not belief in gods or the supernatural, but a distintion between the sacred and the profane. The sacred are things which are 'forbidden' and inspire feelings of awe. The profane are things which have no special significance. Sacred things provoke powerful feelings which indicates to Durkhiem that they are symbols representing society itself. When people worship sacred symbols they are actually worshiping society,uniting all religions. 
• Totemism- Durkhiem belived the essence of religion could be found by studying its simplest form in the simplest type of society (clan society/ tribes). In tribes people come together to worship a sacred totem which is the clans emblem. The shared worship reinforces groups solidarity and sense of belonging. When they worship the totem, they are worshiping society.
• The collective conscience- sacred symbols represent society's collective conscience, which is the shared norms. Shared religious rituals reinforce this and maintain society, also helping the individual feel part of something greater than ourselves.
• Cognitive functions of religion- relgion is also a source of our intellectual capacities. We need categories such as time, space etc and religion has provided us with these categories. 
• Criticisms- Worsley argues there is no sharp division between the sacred and profane. Durkhiems theory only works on small scale societies with 1 or 2 religions.