The genealogy of the sociology of religion

Theoretical and methodological transformations from the classical to the contemporary era

Abstract

Sociology of religion is a branch of social science that studies the relationship between religion and people's lives in a systematic way. The development of this discipline shows a transformation of the perspective on religion, from a mere spiritual doctrine to a social phenomenon that can be analyzed scientifically. This article aims to analyze the evolution of the sociology of religion from the classical period to the modern-contemporary era by highlighting the contributions of the main figures as well as the change in the focus of its studies. This research uses a library research method with a descriptive-analytical approach through the study of various literature, theories, and scientific works related to the sociology of religion. The results of the study show that Ibn Khaldun has laid the initial foundation of social thinking about religion through the concept of ashabiyah and social solidarity. Furthermore, Durkheim viewed religion as a means of social integration, Weber emphasized the influence of religion on social action and the development of capitalism, while Marx saw religion as a product of socio-economic structure. In the modern era, the sociology of religion has developed with the emergence of issues of secularization, pluralism, globalization, and the digitization of religious practices. Thus, religion is still understood as a dynamic social institution and continues to adapt to changes in modern society.