Also, both animism and naturism do not explain why different religions develop different beliefs in different ways. The modern sociological study of society and religion can be split into three distinct theoretical camps. The functionalist perspective changes the emphasis from individual human need to the need of society. Functionalism is primarily concerned with the role religion plays in society. It requires that all societal institutions and structures perform a useful purpose in order to create consensus.
Sacred things act as totems to which groups and individuals ascribe power and importance.
These totems represent or become symbolic of society. This is because sacred things are considered superior and therefore man s relationship to them is one of inferiority and dependence. Therefore, the function of religion is to help bind society with a single set of beliefs and values, or, in other words, by the development of a collective conscience. Durkheim emphasizes the importance of collective worship, by coming together during religious rituals the social group expresses its belief in common values and beliefs and therefore society is strengthened. However, it is not just the church which achieves this collectiveness.