According to Durkheim, all societies have a continuing need to reaffirm and uphold their basic sentiments and values. This is accomplished when people come together and communally proclaim their acceptance of the dominant belief system. In this way, people are bound to one another, and as a result, the stability of the society is strengthened. Not only does religion in itself bring about social cohesion, but often, the hostility and prejudice directed at its members by outsiders also helps strengthen bonds between those members. Durkheim believes that religion strengthens the unity of society and promotes solidarity.