Scope of Sociology of Religion

Scope of Sociology of Religion
The scope of sociology of religion is vast. It not only studies religious aspects but also studies
the connection between religion and different aspects of society. The sociology of religion also
seeks to understand humanly constructed aspects of religion in their social context. In contrast
to other viable approaches to studying religion, the sociology of religion searches for patterns
and processes underlying the interdependence of religion and society. To do so, it further relies
on models, theories, observation, and analysis. The scope of sociology of religion provides
answers to complex relations of religion with the society which are given below:
1. Religion as a social phenomenon
While religion has a private dimension, people experience religion in groups. All the world's
great religions have been created, and are sustained by large bureaucratic institutions.
People profess to believe certain truths that are passed down by religious traditions. What
people profess to believe often has consequences for their behavior.
2. Investigation of religious phenomenon
All of these features of religion are amenable to investigation with the research methods of
the sociology. Sociologists bring different emphases to the study of religion. They study
religion with a commitment to objectivity and a preference for empirical data.
3. Study of various religious aspects
The sociology of religion focuses on areas such as conversion, cults/new religious
movements, religious marketing, personal religiosity, religious conflict, religious
movements, rituals, syncretism (the combining of beliefs and practices from different
traditions), organizational structure, ethnic and national expressions of religion.