In this blog post, we will examine the structural similarities between religion and modern society and explore how these commonalities influence our lives and values.
Religion is a form of belief that has been part of human culture for thousands of years. This belief has not remained solely in the spiritual realm; it has continuously evolved while being deeply intertwined with human social structures. How has religion survived through generations of constant change, and how has it integrated into modern society? To answer these questions, it is crucial to explore religion’s role and its impact on human society. In this context, Yuval Noah Harari’s book Homo Deus argues that our current social systems were shaped by fictional beliefs and religion. I agree with this point. To convince you that religion created the society we live in today, I will first explain the foundations of religion, then discuss its role in modern society. Finally, I will conclude by explaining the similarities between modern society and religion.
Today’s world hosts numerous religions, each with distinct structures, systems, and traditions formed from diverse backgrounds. Each religion possesses unique doctrines and customs, adhering to its own strict patterns. These religious patterns are not mere repetitions of rituals; they serve as crucial frameworks defining social norms and roles deeply rooted in the lives of believers. For example, in many religions, the deity does not exist in a physical form, yet belief in its existence plays a vital role in maintaining and integrating society. In this context, each religion has a fictional deity they revere, and a hierarchical order exists to which one must submit. Furthermore, religion implements the will of the deity through humans who represent it. This demonstrates that religious doctrine plays a vital role in shaping society’s structure and order, extending beyond mere matters of faith.
For instance, Homo Deus describes the time when the Pharaoh was considered a god in ancient Egypt as follows: “While the pharaoh sat in his palace in Memphis, eating grapes and conversing with his wives and maids, his officials moved the kingdom from the Mediterranean coast to the Nubian desert.” This suggests that while the gods themselves do not physically intervene in religion, belief in their rituals and existence is sufficiently powerful to influence every aspect of society.
Looking at modern society, the world today is driven by complex social hierarchies. This hierarchical structure can be found in nearly every part of human society. In companies, shops, restaurants, and various fields like manual labor, we always see the relationship between leaders and those working beneath them. This relationship manifests as specific leaders issuing commands, and those of lower status following those commands to maintain social order. While this structure may appear as a simple social phenomenon, it actually functions in a manner similar to religious belief. In modern society, it seems as though a specific leader issues direct commands, but in reality, a systematic chain of commands based on social traditions and beliefs continues uninterrupted. This command system plays a crucial role in maintaining social stability and order, helping to prevent the structure from collapsing.
The similarity between modern society and religion is particularly evident in how hierarchical structures and social classes share the same beliefs. In both hierarchies, those in charge issue commands, and those below obey them, thereby maintaining the order of the entire society. Furthermore, religious beliefs that follow divine commands manifest similarly in modern society. In religion, God possesses no biological form, yet people still worship God and follow its rituals. This is because for those who follow such systems, the actual existence of a god or leader is unnecessary. Tradition or belief alone is sufficient for them to devote themselves to it.
In 『Homo Deus』, Harari states: “Like the Pharaoh, Elvis Presley possessed a biological body complete with biological needs, desires, and emotions. Elvis Presley ate meals and drank alcohol. Yet Elvis Presley was more than a biological body. Like the Pharaoh, Elvis Presley was a story, a myth, a brand—and that was more important than the biological body.” This book compares Pharaoh and Elvis Presley, explaining how both became symbolic figures in society and culture. In both religion and society, such symbolic entities play a role more significant than physical entities. This is precisely why the command structures of modern society are formed and maintained based on such beliefs.
Religion possesses symbols like God, which are not merely abstract concepts but act as crucial elements regulating society and shaping experience. Even if these symbols cannot be fully interpreted or physically touched, they play a vital role in forming social behavior and norms. In modern society, concepts like the public good, justice, and freedom serve as ideals similar to God. Though people hold strong opinions about what they signify, they remain abstract concepts we cannot directly touch. These symbols can be used as means to demand specific actions or issue commands, ultimately becoming vital components that structure society. For those bound by symbolic systems, such a world is reality, and we all live entangled in one or more such systems. This is because we are part of the social, linguistic animal we call ‘human’.
From this perspective, both religion and modern society have developed and maintained social structures based on complex symbolic systems. This structure is deeply rooted in human beliefs and traditions, acting as a crucial element enabling society’s sustained existence. The significance of religion’s influence on human society lies not merely in matters of belief, but in its vital role in shaping the overall structure and function of society. It remains necessary to continue exploring how modern society embraces and develops these structures.
