In The Elementary Forms of Religious Life (1912); Emile Durkheim sets himself the task of discovering the enduring source of human social identity. He investigates what he considered to be the simplest form of documented religion - totemism among the Aborigines of Australia. For Durkheim; studying Aboriginal religion was a way "to yield an understanding of the religious nature of man; by showing us an essential and permanent aspect of humanity." The need and capacity of men and women to relate to one another socially lies at the heart of Durkheim's exploration; in which religion embodies the beliefs that shape our moral universe. The Elementary Forms has been applauded and debated by sociologists; anthropologists; ethnographers; philosophers; and theologians; and continues to speak to new generations about the intriguing origin and nature of religion and society. This new; lightly abridged edition provides an excellent introduction to Durkheim's ideas.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship; providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features; including expert introductions by leading authorities; voluminous notes to clarify the text; up-to-date bibliographies for further study; and much more.
#747276 in Books 2014-04-01 2014-04-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 5.40 x .70 x 8.20l; .0 #File Name: 0199379807336 pages
Review
27 of 29 people found the following review helpful. The Catholic Church: What Everyone Need to KnowBy Charles LewisJohn Allen is already known as the best English-language reporter covering the Catholic Church today. Any of his many books are worth reading. But his latest; The Catholic Church: What Everyone Needs To Know; is fantastic. It is probably the greatest single resource I have found for understanding Catholicism and the Catholic Church. It's written in simple; question and answer style; and all jargon is explained in plain language. This book would have been perfect for the many reporters covering the recent conclave. But given the Church always seems to be in the news it should still be read by anyone in the media. For everyone else; Catholic or non-Catholic; it will increase your knowledge of one of the world's great institutions. Allen writes for the National Catholic Reporter. But even though he's associated with a Catholic paper he remains the most balanced reporter on Church issues. He never white washes the sins but nor does he shrink from celebrating what is great about the Church. I have read many books on Catholicism and the Church and this by a mile is the finest.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Recommended for anyone who wants to know how the Church ...By James F Mahon IIINo nonense overview of the Catholic Church. Can't think of a question that I had about the Church that it didn't answer. Recommended for anyone who wants to know how the Church does and does not fiction as an organization.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Sarah HardingJohn informs us about many things about the church I did not know.
