Zur Neubestimmung des Verhältnisses von Religion und Moderne: Säkularisierung, Differenzierung und multiple Modernitäten

Abstract

The controversy on secularization has not only been a discussion in a special sociology during the last two decades, but affected the basic premises of sociology. We are talking here about nothing less than an adequate definition of modernity. Secularization and differentiation are the vital interrelated concepts for it. The secularization thesis is being scrutinized by the current sociology of religion and a decades-long consensus on the role of religion in the modern age is terminated. This may have consequences for the theory of differentiation. But discussions on the sociology of religion often fail to engage differentiation theorists. A reciprocal opening of the relatively closed discussions is required. First, the challenges for the theory of differentiation will be considered. Following Max Weber a conflict and tension model is outlined that allows to grasp the diverse forms of religious influence on modern institutions. Depending on the given historical and current conditions, different constellations emerge, in which religion relates to other orders. Using the example of Japan, this model will be extended in a cultural-comparative way. © 2013 Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden.