Sociology of Religion Final Project

The sociological theories of Durkheim lend themselves to this event in multiple ways. The memorial attendees and the "angels" were experiencing collective effervescence. This is when a large group or community experiences something emotionally charged or moving all together.

The positive energy from the angels and the outpouring of support from those in attendance was likely stronger than the negative energy put forth by the hate messages of the WBC. 

Durkheim would also challenge the WBC with his claim that there is no fixed human nature. This means that although the WBC has tried for many years to force heteronormativity upon all people, this is an impossible task, as humans are diverse and ever changing.