Cultivation of Conformity: Towards a General Theory of Internal Secularisation

This book explores the relationship between religious groups and society, examining how they change in response to societal norms and the potential for internal secularization. It uses British Quakers as a case study to explore the consequences of religious assimilation in a secular culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 182 pages
Publication date: 13 May 2019
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay between religious groups and the broader society, shedding light on the dynamic processes through which religious groups adapt and evolve in response to societal norms. It explores the potential for religious groups to undergo processes of 'internal secularization' within secular and secularist cultures, leading to significant transformations in their beliefs and practices. Sociological wisdom suggests that over time, religious groups may moderate their claims, potentially sacrificing new adherents in pursuit of broader appeal. However, religious groups also need to align themselves with state-sanctioned religious expression to secure their rights and privileges. This creates a perpetual conundrum for religious organizations, as they strive to maintain their distinctive identity while also ensuring their harmlessness in the eyes of the state.

To address this conundrum, the author employs a case study of British Quakers, tracing their journey from a counter-cultural group to a fully accepted and integrated part of twentieth- and twenty-first-century society. Through the lens of flows, a framework that encompasses both religious and non-religious aspects, the author examines the consequences of religious assimilation when the process of constructing a distinctive appeal and ensuring harmlessness in pursuit of rights unfolds within a secular culture.

This book makes a substantial contribution to the sociology of religion by presenting a novel theory of internal secularization as the ultimate stage of the cultivation of conformity. It also offers a comprehensive model of the inter-relationship between sects and society, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shape these relationships. By exploring the interplay between religious groups and wider society, The Cultivation of Conformity provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of religious practices and the challenges faced by religious organizations in a rapidly changing world.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 158 x 234 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138740198