Ritual and the Legitimation of Inequality

Abstract

This paper explicates the much neglected process through which ritual both reproduces and transforms beliefs concerning the legitimation of inequality. The point of departure is Collins's interpretation of Durkheim's approach. We rework Collins's analysis in terms of self-evaluation theory and develop a detailed description of several processes through which ritual is reproductive of the legitimation of a society's stratification system. In keeping with the critical character of self-evaluation theory, we show how ritual can also play an important role in the delegitimation of stratification and the promotion of egalitarian norms.