The phenomenological approach is particularly associated with the work of Peter Berger and Thomas Luckmann. Berger and Luckmann have put forward a phenomenological view of religion: Religion is produced by members of society subjectively interpreting and giving meaning to the world around them. According to Berger and Luckmann, religion helps to build, maintain and legitimate universes of meaning. Throughout human history religion has played a decisive part in the construction and maintenance of universes. According to Luckmann, the function of religion can be understood to reduce uncertainty and complexity. Berger and Luckmann argue that religion is probably the most effective mechanism for the legitimation of universes of meaning. The idea that religion promotes social unity and cohesion belongs to Durkheim, who adopts a functionalist perspective towards religion.