The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion

The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion

by Peter L. Berger

240 pages· 1990· ISBN 9780385073059
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“[Berger] writes in a concise and lucid style, a rare talent among sociologists, but does so without losing any of the cogency of his material. More impressively, he is almost unparalleled in his creativity. The Sacred Canopy brings together all of these virtues and is easily his most important book. Indeed, I think it’s the most important contribution to the sociology of religion since Max Weber’s The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism.” —Jeffery K. Hadden, Commonweal

“This is a brilliant analysis that gives evidence of a sociology of religion that is able to clarify the often ironic interaction of religion and society.” —A. Theodore Kachel, Union Seminary Quarterly Review

This important contribution to the sociology of religion provides an analysis that clarifies the often ironic interaction between religion and society.  Berger is noted for his concise and lucid style.

Discussion questions for The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological Theory of Religion

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  1. 1

    How does Berger’s foundational concept of human society as a "nomos"—or a meaningful order—help us understand the psychological and social need for order in our own lives today?

  2. 2

    Berger argues that religion is the audacious attempt to conceive of the entire universe as sacred, thereby providing a "sacred canopy" over human existence. In what ways have you witnessed communities or individuals construct their own "canopies" to protect against the fear of chaos and meaninglessness?

  3. 3

    The book explores the dialectic process of society: humans construct society, and then society constructs humans. Reflecting on your own upbringing or cultural environment, how do you see this reciprocal relationship playing out in your beliefs and values?

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