This collection of essays on Durkheim's work "The Elementary Forms of Religious Life" represents the work of Durkheim scholars from the fields of anthropology, philosophy and sociology. From these diverse viewpoints, the contributors examine Durkheim's perspective on the role of religion and social life. The essays focus on key topics including: the method Durkheim adopted in his study; the role of ritual and belief in society; and the nature of contemporary religion. The contributors also explore cutting-edge debates about the notion of the soul and collective rituals.