Psychological functions

• Psychological functions - Malinowski:

  • Religion provides psychological functions that promote social solidarity
  • Helps individuals cope with stress
  • Studied the Trobriand Islanders

  Whee the outcome is uncertain:

  • Fishing in the Lagoon: no rituals as outcome is certain and situation safe
  • Fishing in the Ocean: rituals as outcome is uncertain and situation dangerous
  • Religion bridges the gap between controllable and uncontrollable

  At times of life crisis:

  • Events such as birth and death cause disruptive changes in social groups
  • Religion brings people together and explains why these happen