Organisations

Question 1

Differences between world affirming, accommodating and rejecting

Answer 1

World- affirming= ‘customers’, non exclusive, tolerant of other religions offer extra knowledge and techniques, accept world Lack conventional features of religion

World- accommodating=
Neither accept or reject world, main focus religion rather than world matters, members live conventional lives. Members break away before joining

World- rejecting= clear notion of god, members must break with former life, critical of world, want radical change, members live communally, restricted contact

Question 2

What is a church

Answer 2

• Large organisations millions of members, universalistic
• include all of society, attract MC through conservative beliefs.
  -Place few demands on their members

world accommodating

Question 3

What is a denomination

Answer 3

Broadly accept societies views
- not linked to the state do not appeal to all of society.

Niebuhr: denominations lying between churches and sects.

world accommodating

Question 4

What is a sect

Answer 4

Small exclusive groups, hostile to wider society

• high level commitment, draw members of poverty and oppression
• Led by charismatic leaders

world rejecting

Question 5

What is a cult

Answer 5

Individualistic, small groups same interests

lack a defined belief system. Do not demand strong commitment

‘customers’ rather than members. little involvement when learnt the techniques it provides. (world affirming)

Question 6

What is a New Age Movement/Religion

Answer 6

• beliefs which are diverse and eclectic, widespread since 1980’s
• beliefs about aliens, astrology, tarot, crystals, yoga or medicine.
• Self spirituality= find belief and spirit within themselves
• Detraditionalization= traditional sacred texts are rejected personal experience is valued

world affirming

Question 7

Why has there been a growth in Sects, Cults, NRMS and NAMS

Answer 7

Relative deprivation=
may be materially wealthy, but crave a sense of community and feel spiritually deprived

Social change=
Norms and values undermined so sects, cults, NRM may be the only solution due to decline in traditional religion

Question 8

Why are sects short lived?

Answer 8

• single charismatic leader, once dies group collapses
  (however not always)
• Barker, can’t cope with strict discipline and commitment so leave
• change in social circumstances 2nd gen dont have initial reason to join so leave e.g Baker, as younger people age, wish for a normal life
• fragmentation of beliefs, diversity and changing ‘trends’ can’t commit

Question 9

Why may sects not be short lived?

Answer 9

Aldridge:
- expel those who don’t conform to rules to maintain standards
- not all have charismatic leader
- socialise 2nd gen and convert more

e.g Jehovah witness’ started in 1880’s still occurring