The sacred represents the moral force of society from "summary" of The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life, a Study in Religious Sociology by Emile Durkheim
The sacred is a fundamental concept in the religious life of society. It represents a powerful moral force that shapes the behavior and beliefs of individuals within a community. As Durkheim argues, the sacred is not simply a set of rules or prohibitions imposed from above; rather, it is a reflection of the collective conscience of the group. When individuals come together in shared rituals and ceremonies, they are reaffirming their connection to the sacred and to each other. In this sense, the sacred serves as a unifying principle that binds members of society together in a common moral framework. It provides a sense of purpose and meaning that transcends individual desires and interests. Through the worship of the sacred, individuals are able to transcend their own limitations and participate in something greater than themselves. This sense of awe and reverence for the sacred is what gives rise to the moral force that guides and shapes society. It is through the collective worship of the sacred that individuals come to understand their place in the world and their obligations to others. In this way, the sacred represents the moral foundation of society. It is the source of ethical norms and values that govern social interactions and relationships. Without the sacred, Durkheim suggests, society would be adrift in a sea of moral relativism and individualism, lacking a coherent set of beliefs and principles to guide behavior.- The concept of the sacred is essential for the maintenance of social order and cohesion. It provides a shared language and symbolism through which individuals can communicate and express their deepest beliefs and convictions. Ultimately, the sacred represents the moral force that binds society together and gives meaning and purpose to human existence.
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