First published in 1970, The Sociological Study of Religion distinguishes the sociological from the philosophical or theological approach to religion. It reviews the major theories relating to religious practice to social structure and analyzes the social functions of religion. The contributions of Durkheim, Marx, Freud, Troeltsch and Weber are examined from this point of view, also the contribution of social anthropology, and the studies of religion in industrial societies. This book is a must read for students of sociology and religion.
Preface 1. The Sociological Approach to Religion: The Pioneers 2. The Definition of Religion: Religion and Community 3. The Study of Religion in Small Scale Societies 4. Functional Theories of Religion 5. Church, Sect and Denomination 6. Church and State 7. Weber’s Sociology of Religion 8. Religion in Industrial Societies Bibliography Index
Biography
Betty R. Scharf
