Interrogating the Durkheimian Theory of Religion and its Implication on African Religion and Environmental Sustainability

Abstract

In the contemporary world, humanity is confronted with a lot of challenges through our actions and inactions. One of these challenges is  environmental degradation and its concomitant effect. As a result, diseases have increased, global warming is a threat, Green House  emissions and pollution are also increasing. This scenario has drawn the attention of the academia, governments, United Nations, non- governmental organizations and religious bodies across the globe on how best to mitigate this challenge. Questions are asked on who to  blame and what should be done. This study, as an aim, seeks to look into these mind-boggling hiccups and proffer solutions to the  lingering menace where the thoughts of Emile Durkheim are interrogated to identify how it has contributed to African Religious thoughts  on environment and how the theory can help in environmental sustainability. Qualitative research approach is adopted in the  work for information gathering. The paper discovered that in spite of accusations and counter accusations on the aspect of  environmental degradation and sustainability, there is still hope that African religious environmental management can help tame the tide  in respect of ecological crisis. The paper recommended that there is need for action by all and sundry towards achieving the desired  qualitative and conducive environment now and for the future.