Sociology of Religion in the Federal Republic of Germany (Appendix)
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Die Religionssoziologie in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland (Anhang)
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Original source:
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Dietrich Goldschmidt
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Die Religionssoziologie in der Bundesrepublik Deutschland (Anhang)
Year: 1960
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction:
The text serves as a supplementary commentary to Dr. Goldschmidt's earlier lecture on the sociology of religion in the Federal Republic of Germany (1959), focusing specifically on the status and implications of church membership in East Germany (DDR). It highlights the distinction between the Catholic and Protestant churches as "people's churches" and discusses their current relevance and membership statistics amid secularization trends.
Conclusion:
Goldschmidt concludes that the era of the "people's churches" in the DDR appears to be diminishing, as evidenced by significant declines in traditional rites such as baptism and confirmation among church members, paired with increasing participation in secular alternatives like the "youth renewal" ceremony. There is a notable shift towards secular marriage ceremonies, with only about 30% of couples opting for traditional church weddings, suggesting a broader trend of secularization that challenges the existence of these churches in their current form.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
How are the Catholic and Protestant churches organized in Germany?
The Catholic Church and various Protestant churches function as 'Volkskirchen.' Protestants are organized into 27 regional Landeskirchen, with 10 in the VELKD and 6 in the EKU, collectively forming the EKD. They play a significant political and social role despite formal separation from the state.
What trends are observed regarding religious practices in East Germany?
In East Germany, there is a decline in traditional church practices. By 1959, only about 60% of youth were confirmed, while around 60% participated in a secular youth ceremony. This indicates growing secularism and potential decline of traditional religious affiliations among the population.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Sociology of Religion in the Federal Republic of Germany (Appendix)”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Religion:
In the context of the provided text, 'religion' pertains to the organized systems of beliefs and practices followed by communities in East Germany, notably the Catholic and Protestant churches known as Volkskirchen. Their role reflects cultural, social, and political dimensions in society, particularly about church membership and rituals.
2) Confession:
The term 'confession' in the text relates to the division within Christianity, highlighting that the Protestant churches in Germany are organized by various confessional groups. This delineation influences church governance, membership, and rituals such as confirmation and wedding ceremonies, indicating the religious identity of communities.
3) Existence:
The 'existence' of the Volkskirchen in East Germany represents a significant aspect of social identity and communal life. Despite the decline in participation and growing secular practices, the churches continue to play a role, albeit in altered forms, signifying that their historical and cultural relevance persists.
4) Marriage:
In discussing 'marriage', the text notes the preference for traditional church weddings among couples, reflecting cultural norms. However, there is a growing trend toward secular marriage options, demonstrating the evolving attitudes toward marriage and religious ceremonies in society, especially in industrial regions.
5) Union:
'Union' in the context of the text refers to the Evangelical Church's organizational structure, emphasizing the united front of various regional churches in Germany. Additionally, it symbolizes broader societal connections, including the merging of church and state influences, as well as inter-church relationships across East and West.