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Sociological definitions, language games, and the "essence" of religion

In: Method & Theory in the Study of Religion
Author:
Andrew McKinnon
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Online Publication Date:
01 Jan 2002
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Abstract

Sociologists of religion have long debated the definition of religion. In this article, I survey the debate and find a partially hidden consensus. This debate, in conjunction with recent criticisms of the concept "religion" in religious studies, and by drawing on Ludwig Wittgenstein's notion oflanguage games, provides helpful pointers for developing a non-essentialist conception of religion. I argue that "religion" (as a phenomenon and as a concept) is a historical and social construction, but that this does not require us to dispense with the concept altogether.

Title:
Sociological definitions, language games, and the "essence" of religion
Article Type:
Research Article
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1163/157006802760198776
Language:
English
Pages:
61–83
In:
Method & Theory in the Study of Religion
In:
Volume 14: Issue 1
Publisher:
Brill
E-ISSN:
1570-0682
Print ISSN:
0943-3058
Subjects:
Comparative Religion & Religious Studies, Religious Studies, History of Religion

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