Durkheim's Concept of Totems
Emile Durkheim, a prominent sociologist, explored the concept of the 'totem' in his study of religion and society. He argued that totems are symbols that represent the collective identity of a social group or clan.
Totems and Social Cohesion
Durkheim linked the institution of the totem directly to the type of social solidarity prevalent in a society. He proposed that rituals and beliefs surrounding totems serve to reinforce group identity and social bonds.
Connection to Mechanical Solidarity
Durkheim identified two main types of social solidarity:
- Mechanical solidarity: Characteristic of traditional societies, based on likeness, shared beliefs, and collective consciousness.
- Organic solidarity: Found in modern societies, based on interdependence and specialization.
Durkheim argued that the totem, as a symbol of the collective, primarily strengthens the bonds in societies with mechanical solidarity. The shared reverence for the totem unifies individuals who are largely similar in their beliefs and experiences. Thus, the totem is seen as a creation that fosters this type of solidarity.
Important Questions from Sociology of education
Who amongst the following advocated for 'critical pedagogy"?
To understand politics, Rational Choice Theory is basically explaining social phenomenon as an outcome of individual action that can, in some way be construed as rational. In this context, which of the following is not the key element in all rational choice explanations.
Which of the following does NOT belong to the concept of social movement?
Which of the following purposes have been served by family as a social institution?
A. It socializes children.
B. It provides practical and emotional support for its members.
C. It establishes a goal of social equality.
D. It regulates sexual reproduction.
E. It provides its members with a social identity.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
How many school aged girls currently in our society are not en-rolled in school?
