The sociological explanations of the origin and development of religious organisations Flashcards
The following sociological explanations have been given to explain sects:
1) SOCIAL MARGINALITY
According to Weber, those on the margins of society are most likely to join sects (poor and ethnic minorities). Many feel they have been denied the opportunities which they deserve. Sect members can address this problem by a ‘theory of disprivilege’ which promises a ‘sense of honour’ either in this life or the next. Sect members now become the chosen few rather than outsiders relegated to the margins of society. For example, the members of the People’s temple were provided with anything they needed under Jones’ promise of life long care, including acceptance and equality.
2) RELATIVE DEPRIVATION
This is when individuals feel they are worse off relative to those around them. This may also lead to joining a sect since they offer a religious solution. As one of the chosen few, members feel worthy as opposed to deprived. Their self respect may then rise as they are given the opportunity to reject the society that rejected them. For example, the ‘Economic Blueprint for the black man’ advocates economic independence from Whites. Since all members must abstain from luxuries, they are no longer deprived but equal within their group.
3) SOCIAL CHANGE AND SOCIAL DISLOCATION
Sects mostly develop during periods of rapid social change because they provide certainty at a time of anomie. For instance, Cohn’s study of disasters show how both natural and manmade disasters can lead to a fervent desire for salvation, which sects can offer. Joining a sect may also be a response to unsettling contact with an alien culture. For instance, colonisation of Palestine saw the birth of a sect which later became known as Christianity. Industrialisation is one of the main events causing social change and uncertainty. The crisis of meaning that resulted from the industrialisation process encouraged people to turn to sects which offered a monopoly of the truth. Wilson develops this by arguing sects help people make sense of a new situation by their clearly defined guidelines for living
Evaluation of sociological explanations of sects
Beckford found that in his study of Jehovah’s witnesses, most were upper working class or lower middle class. These individuals had never been marginalised which contradicts the theory that sects originate from social marginality. Additionally, Stark and Bainbridge criticise the concept that sects form during periods of social change since he found a greater number formed in the 1950s (the golden age which saw high standards of living and employment) than in the 60s and 70s (a time of social unrest)
