Belief, Ritual, and the Fabric of Society: Anthropological Insights into Spiritual Practices

Abstract (English)

This panel delves into the intricate interplay between belief systems, ritual practices, and societal structures from an anthropological perspective. By examining how rituals embody and reinforce beliefs, we aim to uncover the ways in which these practices contribute to the cohesion and transformation of societies.

Émile Durkheim, in his seminal work The Elementary Forms of Religious Life, posited that rituals serve to delineate the sacred from the profane, thereby reinforcing social solidarity. He argued that through collective participation in rituals, individuals experience a sense of unity and shared purpose, which fortifies the moral fabric of society.

Building upon this foundation, Victor Turner introduced the concept of "communitas" to describe the profound sense of egalitarianism and community experienced during certain ritualistic phases. He emphasized the role of rituals in facilitating social transitions and in challenging and reshaping existing social structures.

Catherine Bell's exploration of "ritualization" offers a nuanced understanding of how rituals are strategically employed to negotiate power dynamics within a society. She suggests that through ritualization, societies construct and convey complex social hierarchies and relationships, thereby influencing social order and change.

This panel will present ethnographic case studies that illustrate these theoretical perspectives, highlighting the diverse ways in which rituals function within various cultural contexts. Discussions will focus on how rituals not only reflect existing beliefs and social structures but also act as catalysts for social transformation.

By integrating classical theories with contemporary ethnographic research, this panel aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the symbiotic relationship between belief, ritual, and society. We invite scholars to engage in a dialogue that bridges theoretical frameworks and empirical findings, enriching our comprehension of the pivotal role that spiritual practices play in shaping human societies.