Religion — Change and Stability in Western Societies

Abstract

One of the central questions that has continued to concern sociology has been whether, given the historical evidence, religion tends towards enhancing social stability or, alternatively, is distinguished more by its disruptive and divisive effects. An associated debate focuses on the relationship of religion to social transformation. Here, the key consideration is whether religion is a conservative force or, alternatively, capable of instigating radical social change. These are however, rather more complex issues than are first apparent, and to appreciate the significance of religion in this respect more recent sociologists have developed and modified some of the classical sociological theorizing in order to render it relevant to contemporary society. Some of the principal themes embraced by these commentators are the subject of this chapter.