Summary and Analysis

"Transgression" In this section, the author writes of the human capacity for fascination with the forbidden (i.e., the taboo), which he says is at the root of the concept of transgression). He discusses how some transgressions have become not only acceptable but expected, suggesting that in fact transgression of almost all taboos has become/is becoming acceptable, if only to a point. Finally, he suggests that transgression, or more specifically feelings of fear, remorse, or anxiety associated with transgression, are essentially the reason for religion. Religion, he posits, exists to provide humanity with an opportunity to counter its instinct towards transgression with nobler actions and beliefs.

"Murder, Hunting and War" The author supports his contention that transgressions of certain taboos have become sanctioned (albeit, within particular limits) by citing as an example how the universal law against killing is...