Belief and Institutions: A Political Sociology of Meaning Itineraries
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Pour une sociologie des itinéraires de sens : une lecture politique du rapport entre croire et institution / Towards a Sociology of Meaning Itineraries: a Political Rea ding of the Relationship between Belief and Institution
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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Patrick Michel
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Pour une sociologie des itinéraires de sens : une lecture politique du rapport entre croire et institution / Towards a Sociology of Meaning Itineraries: a Political Rea ding of the Relationship between Belief and Institution
Year: 1993
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
This article by Patrick Michel engages deeply with the relationship between particular and universal domains in the context of belief systems, invoking the theoretical frameworks developed by Michel de Certeau. The author aims to explore the contemporary economy of belief amid global upheavals as a way to analyze the interplay between individual belief and collective belief, particularly in light of recent sociopolitical changes. Overall, the text serves as both an homage to de Certeau and an exploratory essay on the evolving nature of belief and institutions in modern society.
The Crisis of Collective Belief
One of the pivotal concepts presented is the idea of a crisis in collective belief. Rather than a crisis of belief itself, Michel posits that contemporary societies are facing a disjunction between individual belief and collective belief. This crisis necessitates a reevaluation of how institutions can effectively embody belief amidst the relative context defined by modern globalization. The author explores how recent political transitions, such as the collapse of the Soviet Union, have amplified this disconnection and subsequently raised questions regarding the capacity for institutions to represent a collective belief that resonates with contemporary individuals.
Rearticulation of Identity and Mediation
Another significant concept discussed is the rearticulation of identity and mediation within the context of belief systems. The author argues that the current era reflects a substantial transformation in how identity is formed and expressed, largely influenced by the disintegration of previously rigid ideological structures. The emergence of individualism, differential identities, and the breakdown of central narratives presents a challenge to traditional institutions, which are increasingly viewed as inadequate for managing and articulating meaning in an ever-moving, pluralistic world.
The Intersection of Politics and Religion
The relationship between politics and religion is critically examined, as the text demonstrates how the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe led to intricate dynamics where religious institutions became both liberators and exclusionary forces in society. While religion occasionally emerged as a site of resistance against political authority, it also risked becoming a tool for promoting narrow ideological agendas. The tensions experienced during this transitional phase highlight the need for ongoing reevaluation of how belief systems intersect with political structures, particularly in their ability to mediate social change and diversity.
Language and the Politics of Meaning
Michel also addresses the evolving nature of language as it pertains to belief systems, emphasizing that traditional categories of understanding—like "believer" versus "non-believer"—are increasingly insufficient. The process of communication must adapt to encompass a broader spectrum of belief articulated through diverse practices rather than a singular institutional narrative. This shift challenges institutions to reconcile their historical roles with contemporary realities, thereby reshaping how belief is understood and engaged with in the public sphere.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the article suggests that the crumbling of established political and ideological frameworks has led to a broader environment where the demand for meaning exists outside traditional institutional governance. As belief becomes more individualized and decentralized, institutions find themselves struggling to maintain relevance. The work of Michel de Certeau is invoked as a crucial tool for understanding these dynamics, providing a foundation to explore how individuals navigate the complexities of belief in an increasingly relative and pluralistic world. The challenges described here foster an ongoing dialogue around establishing new pathways for meaning-making that are adaptable, inclusive, and reflective of contemporary experiences.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the urgency of the relation between particular and universal today?
The urgency arises from global upheavals that challenge and recompose this relationship, necessitating an exploration of its complexities in contemporary contexts.
How does the author approach the concept of belief?
The author utilizes Michel de Certeau's theoretical tools to analyze the political dimensions of contemporary belief, examining the tensions between individual and collective belief.
What crisis does the author identify in relation to belief?
The crisis is one of collective belief, highlighting a disconnection between personal faith and the institutional framework that traditionally supports it.
How is the concept of institutions related to belief?
Institutions serve as mediators of belief. However, contemporary shifts challenge their ability to fulfill this role as individuals seek personal meaning independent of institutional frameworks.
What influences the individualization of belief in modern society?
The process of individualization stems from societal changes that empower personal narratives, making centralized institutional beliefs less relevant or authoritative.
What role does the decline of communism play in these discussions?
The collapse of communism marks a reconfiguration of belief systems, emphasizing the need to reconsider political and religious narratives in light of emerging pluralism.
How does the author view the relationship between politics and religion?
The relationship is complex and evolving, with religion positioned as a force questioning political legitimacy, especially after the decline of totalitarian regimes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Belief and Institutions: A Political Sociology of Meaning Itineraries”. 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) Identity:
In contemporary discussions shaped by the crisis of belief and the reconfiguration of institutions, identity fundamentally shapes how individuals relate to their social environment, which includes both the institutional and the personal aspects, emphasizing the multiplicity of identities and their role in political and spiritual arenas.
2) Religion:
Religion acts as a vehicle for identity and meaning, especially during periods of political transition. It offers frameworks of belonging and belief that can sometimes contradict institutional norms, thus reflecting the challenges faced in articulating and engaging with collective faith in the contemporary world.
3) Evolution:
The evolution of belief systems highlights the shifts in societal values and practices, reflecting broader transformations in human consciousness and the collective struggle to find meaning amid rapid changes in social and political spheres.
4) Language:
Language serves as a crucial dimension in the communication of beliefs and identities, acting as both a barrier and a bridge between the individual and the institutional, necessitating new forms of expression in a context of pluralism and relative truths.
5) Lead:
To lead in this context involves guiding conversations around belief and identity in a way that acknowledges individual experiences while confronting the realities of institutional structures that may seek to suppress or define these identities.
6) Politics:
Politics is a domain where belief and identity intersect, often reflecting deeper tensions as societies grapple with the implications of individual freedoms versus collective norms, demanding a critical reflection on the nature of governance and representation.
7) Truth:
The concept of truth in relation to belief has become fluid and contested, prompting a debate over the validity of collective beliefs versus individual interpretations, thereby influencing the politics of identity and societal stability.
8) Universe:
The universe of beliefs is characterized by a multitude of expressions and understandings, where individual and collective narratives overlap, creating a complex web of meaning that is both personally significant and socially constructed.
9) Ultimate:
Ultimate questions of meaning and existence are central to the discourse on belief and identity; these queries often lead to philosophical reflections that challenge established norms and provoke critical debates about the nature of reality.
10) Logic (Logical):
The logic that underpins belief systems and identity formation is increasingly complex in a globalized world, where traditional frameworks are continually being tested by the realities of change and the need for new narratives.
11) Redistribution:
Redistribution of beliefs and values occurs in the context of societal transformation, as new identities emerge that challenge old structures, reshaping the landscape of social interaction and institutional authority.
12) Reflection:
Reflection on belief systems enables critical dialogue about personal and collective identities, facilitating an understanding of how these components interact within broader societal frameworks to construct meaning.
13) Debate:
Debate surrounding the nature of belief and identity underscores the tensions between individual autonomy and institutional control, demonstrating the complexity of navigating faith in modern society.
14) Faith:
Faith transcends mere belief, acting as an anchor for identity amid uncertainty; it fosters a sense of belonging while also facing challenges of articulation in an increasingly individualistic environment.
15) Human:
The human experience is inherently tied to the search for meaning and understanding, where belief plays a pivotal role in defining personal and collective identities in both historical and contemporary contexts.
16) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: #Pari#]
17) Experience:
Experience shapes individual belief systems, highlighting the diversity of pathways through which people engage with meaning and identity in the face of institutional expectations.
18) Weakness:
Weakness within belief systems often emerges from the disconnect between institutional authority and individual experience, prompting a search for authenticity and relevance in personal faith.
19) Avatara (Avatar):
In cultural discourse, an avatar represents different aspects of belief, enabling a dialogue that reflects on the multiplicity of identities and the complexities therein.
20) Face (Facing, Faced):
The face of belief is visible in societal interactions, where individual expressions of faith encounter institutional frameworks, creating a rich tapestry of meaning and conflict.
21) Particularity:
Particularity in belief systems addresses the unique expressions of faith that individuals bring to the collective discourse, emphasizing the need for recognition and validation of diverse identities.
22) Disappearance (Disappeared, Disappear, Disappearing):
The disappearance of traditional belief structures reveals a crisis of centrality, prompting a reevaluation of how identities can be formed and understood in a rapidly changing world.
23) Victory:
Victory in the context of belief often refers to triumphs over oppressive structures, allowing for new expressions of identity to emerge within societal frameworks.
24) Nature:
The nature of belief is inherently dynamic, shaped by ongoing interactions between individuals and institutions, influencing how identities are formed and expressed.
25) Market:
The market of ideas and beliefs reflects a complex interaction of various identities seeking legitimacy and recognition in a socio-political climate that favors pluralism.
26) Fear:
Fear of loss or exclusion can drive individuals towards particular beliefs or identities, reinforcing the necessity for dialogue and understanding in diverse social contexts.
27) Void:
The void left by the collapse of established belief systems necessitates a rethinking of identity and meaning, signaling both a crisis and an opportunity for new forms of understanding.
28) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation of belief systems occurs as societies evolve, indicating a need to adapt traditional narratives to accommodate emerging identities and values.
29) Consciousness:
Consciousness around issues of belief and identity is crucial in contextualizing the human experience and understanding the complexities of personal and societal interactions.
30) Mysticism:
Mysticism often provides a framework for exploring deeper meanings within belief systems, serving as an avenue for individuals to navigate their convictions in relation to spiritual and institutional narratives.
31) Dimension:
Dimension refers to the layered complexities of belief, where personal experiences intersect with collective norms, enriching the discourse on identity.
32) Existence:
Existence itself is framed by the beliefs and identities individuals hold, influencing their understanding of reality and their place within the larger societal framework.
33) Confusion (Confused):
Confusion surrounding belief and identity is symptomatic of the broader societal shifts that challenge traditional understandings and necessitate new dialogues.
34) Mutation:
Mutation of beliefs reflects the adaptive nature of identities, highlighting the ongoing changes that occur in response to cultural and political shifts.
35) Pathetic:
The term pathetic can describe the emotional landscape surrounding belief, particularly in situations where individuals struggle to find meaning in oppressive or chaotic contexts.
36) Freedom:
Freedom of belief is a fundamental aspect of individual identity, shaping how people navigate their rights and responsibilities within both personal and collective spheres.
37) Vehicle:
Religion often serves as a vehicle for expressing personal and communal identities, facilitating the exploration of deeper existential questions in a rapidly changing world.
38) Future:
The future of belief systems remains uncertain amid the complexity of societal transformations, inviting ongoing exploration of identity and meaning in evolving contexts.
39) Frame:
The frame through which belief is understood plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of identity, influencing how individuals relate to both their beliefs and societal norms.
40) Light:
[see source text or glossary: #Light#]
41) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
The limit of institutional power over belief systems is increasingly tested as individuals seek personalized expressions of faith, challenging the notion of what constitutes authority.
42) Implementation:
[see source text or glossary: #Implementation#]
43) Enlightenment:
The Enlightenment period has significantly shaped contemporary discourses on belief, emphasizing reason and individualism in contrast to traditional authority figures.
44) Individuality:
Individuality is paramount in the conversation over belief, as people increasingly seek ways to express their beliefs that resonate with their personal experiences rather than conforming to institutional expectations.
45) Manifest (Manifested, Manifestation, Manifesting):
The manifestation of beliefs shapes identity, revealing how individuals navigate personal convictions amid the pressures of institutional narratives.
46) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communication acts as the essential medium through which beliefs and identities are articulated, playing a vital role in the ongoing discourse surrounding faith and social engagement.
47) Transmission:
[see source text or glossary: #Transmission#]
48) Multiplicity:
Multiplicity of beliefs highlights the variety of identity expressions present in contemporary society, illuminating the complexities of navigating personal and collective convictions.
49) Suppression:
Suppression of certain beliefs by institutions can lead to tension and conflict, reflecting the challenges individuals face in asserting their identities.
50) Subjugation (Subjugated, Subjugate, Subjugating):
Subjugation of voices within belief systems underscores the need for acknowledging diverse identities in the broader discourse of faith and political engagement.
51) Recognition:
Recognition of diverse beliefs fosters an understanding of identity while confronting the challenges posed by institutional authority in shaping collective narratives.
52) Perception:
Perception of belief is deeply influenced by social contexts, affecting how individuals understand their identity and its connection to broader community values.
53) Philosophy:
Philosophy interrogates the nature of belief and identity, prompting critical reflections on what it means to believe in a rapidly evolving world.
54) Discipline:
Discipline in belief systems often relates to the institutional authority that seeks to maintain coherence and order, confronting the chaos introduced by individual interpretations.
55) Science (Scientific):
Scientific inquiry into belief invites a reevaluation of how identities are constructed and understood, grounding the conversation in empirical observations.
56) Spiritual:
Spiritual dimensions of belief encourage individuals to explore deeper meanings and connections, often providing solace amid the complexities of identity.
57) Stability:
Stability of belief systems is increasingly challenged as societies evolve, necessitating a reevaluation of how identities are formed and expressed.
58) Isolation:
Isolation of individuals from prevailing belief systems can foster new identities, reflecting the complexities of personal convictions against institutional narratives.
59) Immediacy:
Immediacy in belief expression reflects the urgent need for individuals to articulate their identities in a world increasingly marked by change and uncertainty.
60) Platform:
Platform refers to the forums where debates around belief and identity occur, shaping how individuals communicate and understand their experiences.
61) Critique:
Critique of established belief systems reveals the conflicts between individual faith and institutional authority, prompting reevaluations of how identities are constructed and expressed.
62) Obstacle:
Obstacle refers to the challenges individuals face when navigating their beliefs within institutional frameworks that may not validate their experiences.
63) Tangible:
Tangible expressions of belief are essential for individuals as they navigate their identities, demonstrating the need for both personal and collective affirmation.
64) Gesture:
A gesture toward inclusivity in belief discussions symbolizes the broader quest for understanding and accepting diverse identities and experiences.
65) Triumph:
Triumph in the realm of belief often signifies the overcoming of institutional constraints, allowing individuals to reclaim their identities and narratives.
66) Machine:
[see source text or glossary: #Machine#]
67) Eternal:
The eternal questions surrounding belief and meaning persist through time, challenging individuals to seek understanding amid the complexities of life.
68) Network:
The network of beliefs illustrates the interconnectedness of identities in modern society, reflecting the diverse pathways through which individuals engage with truth and faith.
69) Leaf (Leaves):
[see source text or glossary: #Leaves#]
70) Spider:
[see source text or glossary: #Spider#]
71) Speech:
Speech acts as a crucial tool in articulating beliefs, influencing how individuals navigate their identities and engage in broader societal discussions.
72) Desire:
Desire for recognition and understanding of diverse beliefs underscores the complex interactions between individual identities and collective narratives.
73) Poetry (Poetic, Poetical):
Poetry serves as a means of expressing the complexity of belief and identity, allowing for an artistic exploration of personal truths and experiences.
74) Poison:
[see source text or glossary: #Poison#]
75) Pillar:
The pillar of belief systems supports individual identities and community structures, reinforcing the need for understanding and dialogue in pluralistic societies.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 88]