This paper analyzes and compares two secular
theories of
religion - Berger's "The Sacred Canopy: Elements of a Sociological
Theory of
Religion"; and Freud's "The Future of an Illusion". The paper shows that Berger's theory is based on a sociological understanding of human nature, while Freud's analysis is based largely upon his psychoanalytical
theories. Both theories feel that the human fear of the terror of nature and death are at the root of the phenomenon of religion. The paper presents these theories, summarizes them and compares their different messages.