Religion from a Sociological Perspective. Religion refers to the set of ideas, attitudes, and practices that are associated with holy or spiritual matters. Religion, according to social theorist Émile Durkheim, is a "unified system of ideas and acts relevant to sacred things" (1915).
Religion serves a variety of purposes in society. These include (a) providing life meaning and purpose, (b) supporting social unity and stability, (c) acting as a social control agency, (d) fostering physical and psychological well-being, and (e) inspiring individuals to fight for good social change.
Religion is another example of a cultural universal, as it exists in some form or another in all communities. Sociologists can use functionalism, conflict theory, and interactionism to better comprehend religion.