Religion and Society

Book Details:

• Title: Religion and Society

• Author: Debiprasad Chattopadhyay

• Category: Philosophy

• Publisher: Aakar Books

• Language: English

• First Publication Year: 1987

• Publication Year: 2024

• Edition: 4th Edition

• Binding: Paperback

• Number of Pages: 211

• ISBN: 9789350022511

About The Book:
Religion and Society is a collection of eight essays by Debiprasad Chattopadhyay that explores the social role of religion throughout human history. Chattopadhyay follows the Marxian framework, dividing human history into three stages: the pre-class stage, the emergence of class divisions, and the future classless society. According to this framework, religion did not exist in the earliest human societies, with magic serving similar functions. As class divisions arose, religion became a historical necessity, playing a complex and often contradictory role.

Chattopadhyay argues that religion, while historically necessary, has evolved over time. It has served as an instrument of control, enforcing the submission of the working masses, while at other times, it has inspired resistance against tyranny and oppression. However, as societies transition to classless systems, the need for religion will disappear. Chattopadhyay connects this argument to the broader Marxist understanding of the universe and human evolution, where everything, both material and spiritual, is in a constant state of flux, coming into existence and passing out of it.

The book also delves into empirical analyses of ancient Indian religions, linking historical events and sociological contexts to the role of religion in these periods. Chattopadhyay’s work presents a deep philosophical analysis of religion as both a product of and a force within society, ultimately arguing for its transcendence in a future classless world.