ON THE SOCIAL STUDY OF THE SACRED

facilitated by Dr. Monica Mikhail

How do social scientists recognize the “sacred” and make it legible to others? What are the essential characteristics of religion for social scientists? And how does a particular mode of inquiry shape the arguments one can make about religion and the religious life? 

In this seminar, we will explore these questions by discussing two distinct sociological and philosophical frameworks for understanding religious experience. We will read excerpts from two foundational figures in the study of religion — Emile Durkheim and William James — and explore how the sacred is defined, categorized, and apprehended according to their respective disciplines.

Previous knowledge of these texts is not required.  This is an opportunity to read excerpts from these often cited scholars and discuss. 

This two-session seminar is open to students and recent graduates (within 3 years of graduation) and Friends of the Berkeley Institute. Registration is required. PDFs of the short readings will be sent to participants.

Required Reading:

Session 1: Book 1, Chapter 1: “Definition of Religious Phenomena and of Religion” in The Elementary Forms of Religious Life by Emile Durkheim (pp. 21-44)

Session 2: Lectures XVI and XVII : “Mysticism” in The Varieties of Religious Experience by William James

Date: Thursdays, November 14 and 21, 2024

Time: 5:30-6:45PM

Location: Berkeley Institute (2134 Allston Way, 2nd floor)