ABSTRACT
This chapter deals first with what intellectuals are from a sociological perspective. This perspective has been quite secularist in its approach, and this chapter aims at bridging the gap between the sociological literature and the field of religious studies. Then it focuses on the role of these intellectuals from within this field of research and action, that is, as sociologists of religion. The chapter makes reference to the work of Norbert Elias on the process of civilization, which suggests that there is no such thing as a perfect society, but only one which can be better than what it was in the past. Perhaps a way forward for working on the process of civilization is to allow religious people, among a multitude of other social actors, to be part of the Enlightenment project. Many sociologists of religion are involved in the media and are often asked by radio, television and print journalists to comment on religion in our society.
