The Elementary Forms of Religious Life (Oxford World's Classics)

I'm starting out on a postgraduate MRES sociology course. Durkheim has grown on me, since the days of undergraduate teachers labelling as a 'functionalist', out of date and so on. There is much, much more to him, and he endures in today's social sciences more than I would have thought. How do we explain things that have happened in this supposedly high modern society? Brexit, Trump, Johnson etc. Do the events of the day make sense? This book helps me understand not only what drove Durkheim, but what drives my own sociological imagination. Relion is the key, or more like, understanding what religion actually is. Now I understand what made old Uncle Emile tick, it feels like I've found the missing piece in the jigsaw of my sociological journey so far. A nicely presented book and very accessible.

This book had some great insights into how religions form and develop. It had interesting comments about the value of religion. However, the language used was so difficult to wade through. Ok I'm not a sociologist but I'm not thick either. I wouldn't put anyone off reading it because of its great ideas but be warned I found it like wading through treacle. Does anyone know of a book which has a good summary of his arguments?

This book is worth reading just for the introduction and the book itself provides a fascinating insight on why societies need religion, how it has developed and the function it performs in society. Any religious person needs to read it as background to their own beliefs while atheists should consider the way in which it illuminates the value of religion in the world.

Durkheim may not be the easiest to understand writer, but this translation made it very simple. It's a great book, mostly for those who study social sciences .

A seminal work for anthropologists. Durkeim has his theory and he is sticking to it. Whether you agree with the theory or not, following his argument is a useful process in crystallising one's own opinion.

Durkeim's thinking of many years ago is now proved to be timeless. His topic and research associated with it makes this a vital read for all interested in religion within society both historically and currently.

Amazing Condition. Invaluable Book & Content. I will use this buyer in future!

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. A must read for everyone interested in the social aspects of religion.