Urban Catholicism and Religious Practice
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Catholicisme urbain et pratique religieuse
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�)
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Emile Poulat.
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly�)
Full text available for: Catholicisme urbain et pratique religieuse
Year: 1970
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
1) Introduction
The text discusses the work of Emile Poulat, which reviews the book "Pratique religieuse urbaine et régions culturelles" by Fernand Boulard and Jean Remy. This collaboration between a religious geographer and a sociologist marks a significant development in understanding Catholicism in urban contexts in France. The study provides vital statistics regarding religious practice across various French cities, laying the groundwork for future sociological analyses and highlighting the disparity in religious adherence between urban and rural populations.
2) The Importance of Statistical Analysis
One of the pivotal elements of the authors' work is the provision of precise statistics on Sunday religious practices across larger cities in France, specifically among those with populations over 50,000. This extensive dataset, covering over 100 cities between 1952 and 1965, enables researchers to analyze religious behavior in a structured way, moving beyond anecdotal evidence. The authors also emphasize a methodological rigor in their approach, ensuring that the gathered statistics can be reliable and conducive to comparative studies on urban religious practice.
3) The Role of Urban vs. Rural Settings
A significant finding from the study is the pronounced difference in religious practice between urban and rural areas. The research illustrates that, on average, urban centers tend to be less religiously active than rural areas. This trend reflects broader social dynamics where urbanization can lead to a decline in traditional religious observance. The disparity reveals that the factors contributing to religious participation are complex and linked to socio-economic and cultural variables within urbanized settings.
4) The Concept of Regional Cultural Influence
Boulard and Remy's study posits that the religious practice in cities is profoundly influenced by the regional cultural context. They argue that the historical, cultural, and social frameworks of a region play a crucial role in shaping the religious landscape. This perspective emphasizes the interconnectedness of urban areas with their surrounding regions and how these linkages can affect religious behaviors. As such, understanding the cultural background of cities provides insights into the varying levels of religious observance documented in the study.
5) The Influence of Social and Economic Factors
Another critical aspect of the research is the exploration of economic and social factors impacting religious adherence. The authors find that multiple dimensions, such as the socio-professional composition of cities and industrial influences, do not straightforwardly correlate with levels of religious practice. While one might expect a higher density of workers to correspond with less religious observance, the findings suggest that such simplifications obscure more nuanced relationships within urban populations. This complexity invites more extensive inquiries into how urban social structures intersect with religious life.
6) The Challenge of Interpretation
Through their findings, Boulard and Remy face the challenge of interpreting the implications of their statistical results. While significant patterns emerge, such as the relationship between regional culture and urban religious practice, the authors generate more questions than answers regarding causality. They point out the methodological limitations and suggest that future research might benefit from a more intersectional approach that considers how religious identity interacts with socio-cultural dynamics in various urban contexts.
7) Conclusion
In conclusion, Emile Poulat’s review highlights the vital contributions of Boulard and Remy in investigating urban religious practice through a sociological lens. Their work not only provides a detailed statistical foundation for understanding religious behavior in urban France but also emphasizes the intricacies of regional cultural influences and social dynamics that shape these practices. The study opens avenues for future research that rigorously examines the interdependencies of culture, economy, and religion within urban environments, underscoring the complexity of contemporary religious landscapes.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the focus of the book by Boulard and Remy?
The book analyzes urban religious practice in France through statistical data on Sunday mass attendance in various cities, exploring cultural regions' influence on these practices.
What methodology did Boulard and Remy use for their research?
They employed a systematic collection of statistical data from cities with populations over 25,000, emphasizing normalizing methods to ensure comparability of information.
What are the main findings regarding religious practice differences?
The study found that urban religious practice levels are generally lower than rural areas, with significant variations across cities, influenced by regional cultural contexts.
How did the authors define 'cultural regions'?
Cultural regions were identified as significant factors influencing religious practice diversity, encompassing historical, geological, and sociocultural aspects that shape local beliefs.
What role does the working class play in religious practice according to the study?
The study confirms that the working class shows notably lower religious attendance compared to other socio-professional groups across urban areas.
What is the relationship between urbanization and religious practice?
The authors concluded that larger urban areas are not necessarily less religious; instead, urbanization impacts vary by city context and regional cultural factors.
What criticisms did Poulat provide regarding the book's conclusions?
Poulat critiqued the lack of clarity in defining cultural regions and the overemphasis on regionality, suggesting a deeper exploration of faith dynamics within regions.
What is Poulat's proposal for future research in sociology of religion?
He advocates for integrating sociological insights with an understanding of faith variables, emphasizing the need to analyze both religious practices and underlying beliefs.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Urban Catholicism and Religious Practice�. 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) City:
The term city refers to a significant urban center that acts as a critical space for social interaction, culture, and, in this context, religion. It is essential to understand the dynamics of religious practice within cities, as the urban environment shapes the observance and participation in religious activities.
2) Paris:
As a notable example of a city, Paris represents a unique case in urban Catholicism, showcasing complexities in religious attendance influenced by modern secularism and historical factors. The role of Paris in religious studies highlights the intersection of culture and urban geography, particularly in the context of a larger narrative of faith in France.
3) Book:
The book discussed in the text serves as a foundational document in the study of urban religious practice. It presents essential data and reflections on the relationship between geography, sociological trends, and the structures of faith within various cities, ultimately contributing to a critical discourse on religion.
4) Religion:
Religion is central to the text, representing the beliefs and practices that engage individuals and communities. The exploration of urban Catholicism illustrates the evolving nature of religious observance and the influence of societal structures on faith, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of religious dynamics.
5) Faith:
Faith signifies a deep-seated belief that transcends mere observance. In the discourse of urban Catholicism, individual and collective faith shapes participation in rituals, creating a unique interface with the modern world, influencing how communities express and live out their beliefs within urban spaces.
6) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
The concept of limit arises in discussions about the extent of religious observance and the associated cultural boundaries. In examining urban areas, limits reflect sociological challenges and boundaries that may constrain participation in religious practices, necessitating a deeper exploration of these dynamics.
7) Geography:
Geography plays a significant role in understanding the patterns of religious practice across different regions. It contextualizes the spatial distribution of faith expressions, demonstrating how cultural geography influences urban centers and their unique religious landscapes, as emphasized in the book's analysis.
8) External:
The term external refers to influences that come from outside the religious institution, impacting how faith is practiced in urban environments. Understanding external factors is crucial in the critique of societal influences on morality and religious tradition, reflecting the need for adaptation and resilience within faith communities.
9) Civilization:
Civilization denotes the broader social context in which urban religions develop and operate. The intersection of urban Catholicism and modern civilization highlights the complexities of faith amidst the pressures of contemporary social change, requiring a reevaluation of tradition within the ever-evolving cultural landscape.
10) Environment:
The environment refers to the physical and social context in which religious practices occur. This includes the city's dynamics, which serve as a backdrop for the manifestation of faith, influencing participation and the observance of religious rites in significant ways.
11) Experience:
Experience emphasizes the subjective nature of religious practice, shaped by individual interactions, observations, and community dynamics within urban settings. It brings forth the human element of spirituality, allowing for diverse expressions of faith and engagement with religious communities.
12) Observance:
Observance pertains to the act of practicing religious rituals and adhering to beliefs. The book explores variations in observance across urban versus rural settings, underlining the influences of socio-economic factors on the frequency and manner of religious participation.
13) Science (Scientific):
The scientific approach in the text is critical in interpreting data regarding urban religious practice. Employing a scientific lens allows for the examination of social phenomena, providing a basis for understanding the complexities that shape religious engagement in metropolitan areas.
14) Ultimate:
Ultimate signifies the core essence or final conclusions drawn about religious practice and faith. In evaluating urban Catholicism, the text seeks to articulate the ultimate sources of faith amidst changing social dynamics, ultimately dissecting the persistent nature of spirituality in a modern context.
15) Debate:
Debate represents the ongoing discussions and differing viewpoints surrounding urban religious practices and their implications. Engaging in debate is vital for understanding the multi-faceted nature of faith as it adapts to societal changes and challenges within urban environments.
16) Future:
Future refers to the potential trajectories of urban religious practice and the evolving nature of faith communities. The anticipation of future dynamics is essential for understanding how religion may adapt and respond to modern challenges while retaining its significance within society.
17) Game:
The use of the term game metaphorically addresses the intricacies and strategic interactions surrounding religious practices and their sociological implications. It underlines the complexities of participation in religious life and the motivations behind engagement within urban contexts.
18) Detachment:
Detachment signifies the distancing or disengagement from religious practice. The phenomenon of detachment raises critical questions about faith's role in modern society and how contemporary influences contribute to shifting attitudes towards organized religion and communal observance.
19) Confusion (Confused):
Confusion highlights the lack of clarity that can arise concerning the interplay of faith, society, and religious observance in urban settings. It points to the difficulties in establishing a coherent understanding of religious practice amidst evolving cultural landscapes.
20) Nature:
Nature suggests the inherent qualities of religious belief systems and their expressions in everyday life. Understanding the nature of faith allows for a more profound appreciation of how individuals experience and relate to their religious practices within diverse urban environments.
21) Shadow:
Shadow reflects the hidden or overlooked aspects of urban religion, including the subtle influences of cultural change and societal pressures that shape religious observance. Acknowledging the shadow of faith aids in comprehending the complexities of identity and belief in modern contexts.
22) Doubt:
Doubt signifies the questioning of faith or religious doctrines prevalent in contemporary society. Analyzing doubt provides insight into the struggles faced by individuals and communities in reconciling their beliefs within the framework of modernity and rational discourse.
23) Human:
Human emphasizes the personal aspect of religion, focusing on the lived experiences and emotional connections individuals have with their faith. The text highlights how human sentiments and cultural attachments contribute to the diversity of religious expressions seen in urban settings.
24) Mind:
Mind refers to the cognitive dimension of faith, encompassing beliefs, interpretations, and existential reflections that shape one's relationship with religion. The exploration of the mind is essential for understanding how beliefs are formed, challenged, and maintained in modern urban contexts.
25) Face (Facing, Faced):
Face expresses the outward identity of faith communities and how they present their beliefs in public spheres. The concept of face acknowledges the social dynamics at play in religious observance and the collective identity of urban congregations.
26) Urban center (Urban centre):
Urban center encapsulates the focal point of urban life where religion interacts with various social, economic, and cultural factors. Understanding urban centers is crucial for examining how religious practices adapt and thrive in contemporary society.
27) Mathematics (Mathematical):
Mathematical denotes the quantitative aspects of sociological research that inform analyses of religious observance. Employing mathematical tools provides critical insights into patterns of practice, helping articulate the relationship between socio-cultural variables and faith expressions.
28) Discussion:
Discussion highlights the conversational process through which multiple perspectives about urban religious life are explored. Engaging in discussion encourages a better understanding of the complexities and nuances of faith in increasingly diverse urban contexts.
29) Reflection:
Reflection indicates the thoughtful contemplation of religious experiences and practices. The text emphasizes the importance of reflection in understanding how faith adapts to modern challenges and how individuals engage with their beliefs.
30) Discipline:
Discipline signifies the structured approach applied in sociological studies of religion. It emphasizes the necessity for rigorous methodologies and analytical frameworks to investigate the complexities of faith and practice in urban areas.
31) Knowledge:
Knowledge refers to the understanding gained through research and analysis of urban religious dynamics. The pursuit of knowledge is essential for comprehending the intricacies of faith in modern societies and the factors that shape religious adherence.
32) Ignorance (Ignorant):
Ignorance serves as a reminder of the gaps in understanding surrounding the interplay of faith and social variables. Acknowledging ignorance paves the way for further exploration and scholarly engagement regarding the dynamics of religion in urban environments.
33) Aggregate:
Aggregate represents the collections of sociological data and observations that characterize broader trends in religious practice. Analyzing aggregate data aids researchers in understanding the diversity of faith expressions within various urban contexts.
34) Mutation:
Mutation signifies the changes and transformations in religious practices as society evolves. Recognizing mutation is vital for understanding how urban environments influence the development and adaptation of faith communities.
35) Language:
Language reflects the means through which religious beliefs communicate their meanings. The role of language in urban religious practice underscores the cultural implications and the negotiation of faith amidst diverse populations.
36) Illusion:
Illusion refers to misconceptions or misunderstandings about the state of faith in modern society. Unraveling these illusions is crucial for recognizing the true dynamics of urban religious practice and the challenges faced by contemporary faith communities.
37) Vitality:
Vitality captures the energy and dynamism within religious communities that enables them to adapt and thrive. Exploring the vitality of urban faith movements sheds light on how traditional practices evolve in modern contexts while maintaining their core essence.
38) Family:
Family denotes the social unit within which religious values and beliefs are often transmitted. The influence of family structures is significant in shaping individual faith experiences and broader community observances within urban settings.
39) Prayer:
Prayer represents a foundational aspect of religious observance and personal faith. The practice of prayer connects individuals to their belief systems, providing a means of engagement with the divine amid the challenges presented by an urban environment.
40) Power:
Power refers to the authority and influence that religious institutions wield within society. Investigating power dynamics within urban religious practices reveals how institutional structures inform and shape the experiences of faith communities.
41) Truth:
Truth encapsulates the core beliefs and doctrines upheld within religious contexts. Understanding how urban faiths engage with concepts of truth is vital for deciphering the complexities of belief in increasingly pluralistic environments.
42) Space:
Space signifies the physical and conceptual areas where religious practices occur. In urban contexts, space is crucial in shaping community interactions and the environment in which faith is expressed and experienced.
43) Light:
Light serves as a metaphor for understanding and enlightenment in the context of faith. It symbolizes the clarity and insight gained through religious observance, shaping individual and communal experiences of spirituality.
44) Common People (Common Folk):
Common people represent the grassroots individuals whose experiences form the foundation of religious life. Understanding the perspectives of common people is essential for unpacking the complexities of faith in urban environments.
45) Implementation:
Implementation refers to the practical application of sociological research findings regarding urban religious practices. Effective implementation of insights is necessary for fostering better engagement and understanding of faith among urban populations.
46) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation indicates the significant shifts in religious practices and beliefs over time. The need for transformation in urban faith communities highlights the ongoing negotiation between tradition and modernity faced by religious institutions.
47) Manifest (Manifested, Manifestation, Manifesting):
Manifestation points to the visible expressions of faith within urban settings. Understanding the multiple forms of religious manifestation is crucial to comprehending how communities articulate their beliefs amidst changing societal dynamics.
48) Determination:
Determination reflects the resolve with which individuals and communities adhere to their faith amidst challenges. Acknowledging determination is necessary for understanding the resilience of urban religious communities in the face of modern pressures.
49) Revolution:
Revolution signifies significant changes that impact religious structures and practices. The potential for revolution within urban faith contexts highlights the dynamic interactions between historical legacies and contemporary understandings of religion.
50) Uniform (Uniformity):
Uniformity addresses the trends towards consistency among religious practices and beliefs within particular contexts. Exploring uniformity allows for a deeper comprehension of how urban environments influence religious expression while potentially stifering diversity.
51) Inference:
Inference pertains to the conclusions drawn from analyzing religious data and practices. Making inferences about urban faith trends reveals insights about the sociocultural influences shaping observances and community engagement.
52) Evolution:
Evolution reflects the gradual changes in religious practice over time, particularly in urban areas. Understanding the evolution of urban faith allows researchers to assess how traditions adapt to contemporary cultural shifts and challenges.
53) Education:
Education highlights the role of formal and informal learning in shaping religious understanding and observance. In urban settings, education influences how individuals and communities engage with their faith amidst changing societal values.
54) Stability:
Stability refers to the enduring aspects of religious practices that persist despite modern challenges. Recognizing the stability of urban faith communities is essential for understanding how they maintain their traditions amidst a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.
55) Doctrine:
Doctrine signifies the foundational beliefs that underpin religious practices. The role of doctrine in urban Catholicism informs the discussions about adherence and the challenges presented by modern secular perspectives.
56) Merchant:
Merchant refers to the socioeconomic roles within urban environments that can influence religious practices. Understanding how merchants and commercial dynamics interact with faith provides insight into the broader cultural implications of observance.
57) Marriage:
Marriage symbolizes the intersection of personal, social, and religious values. Examining the role of marriage in urban religious contexts reveals how faith communities engage with the broader societal changes regarding partnership and family.
58) Politics:
Politics reflects the interaction between religious institutions and state affairs in urban settings. Exploring the political dimensions of urban faith helps clarify the dynamics of influence and power in shaping religious observance.
59) Dialogue:
Dialogue signifies the necessity of conversation about faith within urban communities. Engaging in dialogue encourages understanding and fosters connections among diverse faith expressions within contemporary settings.
60) Critique:
Critique reflects the evaluative process of analyzing religious practices and observations. The role of critique is essential in unpacking the complexities and challenges faced by urban faith communities in adapting to societal changes.
61) Freedom:
Freedom denotes the capacity of individuals to choose their beliefs and engage in religious observance. The interplay of freedom and urban religious practice captures the essence of contemporary faith experiences amidst societal constraints.
62) Feeling:
Feeling refers to the emotional dimensions of faith and practice. Exploring the role of feeling within urban religious contexts illuminates how personal experiences influence community engagement and participation in rituals.
63) Hundred:
Hundred indicates a significant measure of time, reflecting the historical context of religious practices. Acknowledging history, especially in the centennial narrative of urban faith, reveals insights into the long-term influences on contemporary religious observances.
64) Extreme:
Extreme suggests the variations in religious practice and belief that can occur within urban environments. Recognizing extreme positions within faith communities helps illuminate the broader spectrum of religious observance and its complexities.
65) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene metaphorically refers to the necessity of maintaining clarity and rigor in the examination of religious practice. Emphasizing methodological hygiene ensures that analyses of urban faith are based on sound principles and clear definitions.
66) Leaf (Leaves):
Leaves might signify the moments of departure or transition from traditional practices within urban faith contexts. Understanding the implications of these leaves is crucial for assessing changes in belief and observance among communities.
67) Repair:
Repair suggests the potential restoration or revitalization of faith practices within urban populations. Acknowledging the need for repair highlights the importance of renewal and adaptation in maintaining religious vitality amidst contemporary challenges.
68) Refuge:
Refuge denotes the safe spaces provided by faith communities for individuals facing societal pressures. The role of refuge is essential for understanding how urban religious practices offer comfort and support amidst the complexities of modern life.
69) Heaven:
Heaven represents the ultimate aspiration within religious belief systems, particularly in Catholicism. The ideal of heaven influences the motivations for observance and the alignment of individual and community practices with theological principles.
70) Danger:
Danger signifies the threats faced by religious identities amidst modern secularization. Recognizing the dangers of disconnection from religion informs discussions about the resilience and adaptability of faith communities.
71) Secret (Secrecy, Secretly):
Secret highlights the hidden aspects of faith, including unspoken beliefs and practices. The exploration of secrets within urban religious contexts can reveal intricacies of identity and spirituality not readily visible on the surface.
72) Praise:
Praise represents the expressions of worship and acknowledgment within religious contexts. Understanding praise in urban faith communities captures the emotional and communal aspects of spirituality and their cultural implications.
73) Praxis:
Praxis denotes the practical application of theoretical principles within religious observance. Exploring praxis in urban contexts reveals how beliefs are enacted and lived out among diverse populations.
74) Heart:
Heart symbolizes the deeply personal and emotional experiences of faith. Understanding the role of heart within urban religious practice emphasizes the significance of individual connections to religious communities and their traditions.
75) Judge:
Judge refers to the evaluative criteria applied to religious practices and beliefs. The act of judgment within faith contexts sheds light on societal expectations and moral considerations affecting communities' engagement with their spirituality.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 85]