Durkheim

In his writings in "Rules of The Sociological Method," Durkheim describes the concept of social fact as ways of behavior and thinking (amongst other actions) that are external to the individual and yet are coercive, controlling him or her. Society has certain rules and conventions that are established before one's birth, that predate their existence -- although not forced by law to adhere to these customs (in most cases), not doing so would isolate the individual and make them the target of social reprimands. Durkheim argues that social constraints can be compatible with individual personality, and that in fact that behavior is informed by our social environments -- a political organization, such as a government, is also just as obligatory as social facts are and explains their presence in part. In his discussion in "The Division of Labor in Society," Durkheim mentions that modern society prefers the individual to specialize, to fulfill a certain role rather than to gain a broad understanding of one or many fields and to become "self-sufficient" or somewhat capable in many fields. The individual has a function, and it is far more desirable to produce (in true industrial tradition) than to be "complete". The real function of this division of labor, Durkheim claims, is to create in two or more individuals a feeling of social solidarity. Similarly to his writings on social facts, in "The Elementary Forms of Religious Life," Durkheim discusses the uniform nature of religious actions, the repetition of behaviors and rituals which can very easily be thought of as such powerfully coercive, general and external pressures or constraints.

I found the concept of social facts and its relation to both religion and the performance of certain roles in society to be extremely interesting. The connection between religious ceremonies, rituals and other customs are naturally equatable with social fact, because in many societies these beliefs are inextricably linked to the cultural and social traditions of that population. Furthermore,  I agree that individuals are indeed influenced by their social surroundings, and especially during their upbringing. The constraints placed upon them as well as the expectations that accompany their status in society have a tremendous impact upon the role they seek to play (constructive or antagonistic towards that society). In rejecting the social constraints (such as the law) these individuals are punished and social norms are once again reaffirmed -- although they are not tangible or immediately present until someone attempts to violate or challenge them. I would like to know more about the connection between social perception of a role's importance and how the individual's upbringing leads them to decide upon fulfilling that function.