Forms of Explanation in Religion

Abstract

In the preceding chapter we developed a contrast between radical, observer-based explanations of religion and conservative, participant-based explanations. This contrast is connected with the theme of the priority of appearances in our approach to human belief and behaviour. We are familiar with, and readily accept, the notion that the sense and meaning of an individual’s acts may not be as they appear to him. The much used categories of rationalisation and wishful thinking provide ways in which we may penetrate behind the appearance of someone’s conduct to its true meaning. A radical theory of religion must seek to extend the use of such ideas so as to make a convincing case for concluding that an entire human institution has one meaning to its participants and yet quite another one in reality.