Review article
Theoretical and Methodological Disputes in Approach of Problem of Religious Conversion
Neven Duvnjak
; Institute of Social Sciences Ivo Pilar
Abstract
In this article author points that in Croatian sociology of religion has not been relevant research concerning religious conversion. However, because of greater presence of new religious movements, sects and denominations it is supposed that number of converts will significantly raise in Croatia. Future sociological researches should take this fact in consideration. Generally, there are two main approaches in study of religious conversion. First is based on traditional Biblical transcription of St. Paulus conversion on the road to Damascus, which is developed within secularisation theory. This approach described conversion as dramatic and momentary act caused by outer circumstances and even by supernatural forces. Second approach is founded on results of numerous empirical researches and emphasises that conversion is shorter or longer process in which person enters deliberately and by free will. Arguments for this approach can be find in several theories: deprivation theory, role theory and social network theoiy. In the article critical review is given on earlier very popular brainwashing theoiy. This theory emphasises that brainwashing techniques could completely change person’s worldview and which are irreversible. However, empirical researches has not proved completely existence of brainwashing techniques, which was frequently abused by anti-cult movements in process of deprogramming. As theoretically interesting and methodologically valuable Lofland-Skonovd’s typology is explained in this article. It differs 6 models of conversion which, under some corrections, could be applied in future research of religious conversion in Croatia.
Keywords
religious conversion; secularization theory; deprivation theory; brainwash; Lofland-Skonovd conversion motifs
Hrčak ID:
154137
URI
Publication date:
30.6.2001.
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