Using information from Item A and elsewhere, outline Durkheim’s theory of religion.(9 marks) Essay skills: Using the item. Item A Like men and women everywhere, the daily lives of some tribal people are a reflection of their beliefs and traditions. Rituals which to us may seem cruel and dangerous often serve a vital role in keeping law and order within a group, and are fundamental to identity. Practices like stick fighting, ritual whipping, bull jumping and scarification fulfil important functions. As well as showing that the culture is still strong and vibrant, they give participants pride in their heritage and a sense of belonging.

Bronislaw Malinowski Magic, Science & Religion (1954) 2 key areas of study: 1. Religion, prediction & control (fishing & religious rituals) 2. Religion & the life crisis

Bronislaw Malinowski Magic, Science & Religion (1954) Lesson objective: To learn about Malinowski’s research and to compare it to Durkheim’s ‘Elementary Forms of Religious Life’

Starter List as many examples of how religion can help us feel a greater sense of control and reduce anxiety.

Malinowski

1. Religion, prediction & control Sea fishing was seen as an undertaking that could not be controlled or predicted by practical means. This produced tension & anxiety among the islanders. Malinowski noted that such events were surrounded in religious ritual.

‘Lagoon’ fishing Malinowski noted that while fishing in the calm waters of the lagoon…. “fishing is done an easy & absolutely reliable manner by the method of poisoning, yielding abundant results without danger and uncertainty”.

Sea fishing “… however, beyond the barrier reef there is danger & uncertainty everywhere” Loss of Life Cannot be certain of a good catch “ In the lagoon where man can relay on his knowledge & skills there are no rituals…whereas fishing in the open sea is preceded by rituals to ensure a good catch & protect the fishermen”.

Therefore sea fishing trips were surrounded by religious rituals in which most of the islanders took part

The sociology bit #1 Rituals are used for situations which produce anxiety. They reduce anxiety by providing confidence and a feeling of control The rituals are ‘social events’ where the society unites to deal with the stress and in doing so strengthens group unity (ie; produces social solidarity) Can you think of any other applications for Malinowski’s theory in contemporary life?

2. Malinowski & the Life Crisis Similar theme to the fishing rituals. Claims the 4 main life crisis are: 1. Birth 2. Puberty 3. Marriage 4. Death (most disruptive) “anxiety & tension disrupt social life…in all societies these life crises are surrounded with religious rituals”.

Such rituals can be found across all cultures. Birth ~ baptismPuberty ~ bar mitzvah

Life crises & religious rituals Marriage ~ WeddingDeath ~ Funeral

The sociology bit #2 Death is socially disruptive. A funeral ceremony expresses belief in immortality denying the fact of death & comforts the bereaved. Such comfort keeps emotions in check, controlling the stress & anxiety which might otherwise disrupt society. At funerals the social group unites to support the bereaved, this expression of social solidarity reintegrates society.

AO2’s ~ Comparisons with Durkheim’s Elementary forms of Religious Life. Similarities Religion reinforces social norms & values Religion promotes social solidarity (social glue function) Differences Religion does not reflect society as a whole. Religious ritual is not the worship of society's collective conscience.

Exam technique & further AO2s Evaluate Malinowski’s research method: 1.What was his method? 2. Explain the advantages & disadvantages using sociological terms. 3. Compare Malinowski’s method with Durkheim’s 4. Always return analysis to the functionalist argument that religion, worship and rituals are functional for society (ie: it benefits society, provides consensus via shared norms & values).