Sociology of religion is the study of the beliefs, practices and organizational forms of religion using the tools and methods of the discipline of sociology. This objective investigation may include the use of both quantitative methods (surveys, polls, demographic and census analysis) and qualitative approaches such as participant observation, interviewing, and analysis of archival, historical and documentary materials.[1]

Modern academic sociology began with the analysis of religion in Émile Durkheim's 1897 study of suicide rates among Catholic and Protestant populations, a foundational work of social research which served to distinguish sociology from other disciplines, such as psychology. The works of Karl Marx and Max Weber emphasized the relationship between religion and the economic or social structure of society. Contemporary debates have centered on issues such as secularization, civil religion, and the cohesiveness of religion in the context of globalization and multiculturalism. The contemporary sociology of religion may also encompass the sociology of irreligion (for instance, in the analysis of secular humanist belief systems).

Sociology of religion is distinguished from the philosophy of religion in that it does not set out to assess the validity of religious beliefs. The process of comparing multiple conflicting dogmas may require what Peter L. Berger has described as inherent "methodological atheism".[2] Whereas the sociology of religion broadly differs from theology in assuming indifference to the supernatural, theorists tend to acknowledge socio-cultural reification of religious practice.

Study of Society by Sociologists vs. Philosophers, Religious Leaders, and Laymen
1. Perspective and Approach:
- Sociologists study society using scientific methods and theories, focusing on empirical evidence and data analysis.
- Philosophers may study society from a theoretical or moral perspective, exploring abstract concepts and ideas.
- Religious leaders may view society through the lens of religious teachings and beliefs, emphasizing moral values and spiritual guidance.
- Laymen typically observe society through personal experiences, common sense, and everyday interactions.
2. Scope of Study:
- Sociologists study society as a complex system with various institutions, structures, and processes that shape human behavior.
- Philosophers may focus on broader questions about the nature of society, justice, and ethics.
- Religious leaders may emphasize spiritual aspects, such as faith, morality, and the afterlife, in their study of society.
- Laymen often have a more limited understanding of society, based on personal observations and interactions within their immediate social circle.
3. Methodology:
- Sociologists use a variety of research methods, such as surveys, interviews, observations, and experiments, to study society systematically.
- Philosophers rely on philosophical reasoning, logic, and critical analysis to understand social phenomena.
- Religious leaders may interpret social issues through religious texts, teachings, and traditions.
- Laymen may rely on intuition, personal beliefs, and anecdotal evidence in their understanding of society.
4. Objective vs. Subjective View:
- Sociologists strive to maintain objectivity in their study of society, basing their analysis on empirical evidence and logical reasoning.
- Philosophers may offer subjective interpretations and perspectives on social issues, based on their philosophical beliefs and values.
- Religious leaders often provide moral and ethical guidance based on religious teachings, which may be subjective in nature.
- Laymen may have a more subjective and personal view of society, influenced by their own biases, experiences, and beliefs.