religion, renewal and choice Flashcards
1
Q
why is it difficult to measure affiliation to NRMs in the UK
A
- some groups have finished their organisations but still have devotees
- many groups are based overseas
2
Q
the problem of maintaining heavy commitment for cults and sects
A
- heavy commitment and enthusiastic fervour to a cult is hard to maintain
- this is especially difficult for those who did not choose to becomes members
- itll either wither away or have to become less of a protest movement
3
Q
charismatic leaders and nrms
A
- many sects are led by a single charismatic leader
- once that leader is gone the group will lose support
4
Q
why might changing circumstances be detrimental to nrms
A
- peoples original reasons for joining may change or disappear
- this is especially true for generations following from first gen converts
5
Q
what do post modernists believe about religious diversity
A
- beliefs people hold are personal
- can experiment with different types without long term commitment
6
Q
why are sects, cults and new age movements appealing
A
- solution for those looking to escape difficult circumstances
- access to a new range of beliefs through the internet in a media saturated globalised world
- fills the spiritual vacuum left by lack of spirituality in mainstream secular society
- a source of identity in a post modern society
- ## sense of security and independence for those facing status frustration
7
Q
why might unfounded answers prove to be a problem to sects/cults
A
- sects/cults that have values and beliefs can face problems if those beliefs are proved unfounded
8
Q
what does aldridge argue
A
- not all sects disappear or become denominations
- many sects have been around for a very long time while still retaining their features as sects
- not all sects depend on a charismatic leader
- many sects are successful in socialising their children into their beliefs and practices
- sects can maintain high standards and expel people who do not conform
