Durkheim’s Sacred and Profane - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Sacred and Profane: In the realm of sociology, the concepts of the Sacred and Profane, articulated most influentially by Emile Durkheim, refer to the fundamental dichotomy by which societies categorize all aspects of their existence. One encompasses the extraordinary, revered, and often forbidden, while the other consists of the everyday, mundane, and utilitarian. But is this division as clear-cut as it seems? Are these categories truly distinct, or do they bleed into each other in ways that challenge our understanding of social order?
The framework of the sacred and profane, while not explicitly named with these exact terms before, finds its roots in Durkheim’s seminal work, The Elementary Forms of Religious Life (1912). Drawing upon anthropological studies of Australian Aboriginal religious practices, Durkheim identified this division as universal to all religions and, by extension, to all societies. He theorized that these categories are not inherent properties of objects or ideas but rather social constructions imposed by collective beliefs and rituals. The early 20th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and social upheaval, provided fertile ground for Durkheim’s exploration into the nature of social solidarity and the role of religion in maintaining social cohesion.
Interpretations of the sacred and profane have evolved considerably since Durkheim's initial analysis. Later scholars have explored the blurring of these boundaries, noting how the profane can become sacralized through ritual and how the sacred can be profaned through secularization or commodification. Think, for example, of the modern-day commodification of religious symbols or the quasi-religious reverence afforded to celebrities or national icons. Anthropological studies have revealed the incredible diversity in how different cultures define the sacred, highlighting the fluidity and context-dependent nature of these categories.
The division of the sacred and profane continues to resonate today, informing our understanding of phenomena ranging from political ideologies to consumer culture. The enduring allure and adaptability of this concept lies in its capacity to illuminate the underlying structures that give meaning to human existence. As we continue to navigate a world increasingly defined by complex belief systems and shifting social norms, the question remains: What do we hold sacred, and how does this shape our collective identity?