Marx

I think Marx's parallel between religious and socioeconomic activity based on conciousness and alienation is incredibly interesting, but I feel like most things could fit into this rubric. Any sort of hierarchy; race, gender, etc, could be included in this discussion. I don't think that Marx would argue with this, but I now find myself wondering where lines can be drawn distinguishing religion from race, race from gender, etc. I wonder if Marx would say there is no distinction.

Durkheim

I think that Durkheim's connection between religion and society is incredibly accurate. Growing up in an incredibly religious area and being an atheist, a lot of times, I found myself excluded in social events. Even major school related events, at a public school, were religious. I am a little confused about the terms 'sacred' and 'profane'. Although, Pals explains that neither are necessarily good or evil, I have a hard time thinking of either term without connecting it to either good or evil. The distinction that sacred is related to outside, public activities and profane is personal is somewhat helpful.