The modern sociological study of society and religion separates into three distinct theoretical camps. The functionalist perspective emphasizes not individual human need, but the need of society. Functionalists are primarily concerned with the role religion plays in society. All societal institutions and structures perform a useful purpose in society, creating consensus. Religion is based on this divide.
Sacred things act as totems to which groups and individuals ascribe power and importance.
Durkheim and Mauss argue that these totems represent society itself or become symbolic of society. Thus, when people worship god they worship society because sacred things are considered superior and man's relationship to them is one of inferiority and dependence. Religion functions to help bind society with a single set of beliefs and values, developing a collective conscience. Durkheim and other functionalist theorists argue that all social institutions, and the rituals which they enjoy, are viewed as sacred. It is not the Church alone which achieves this collectiveness.