Read About Satanism, The Church Of Body Modification And Sci

Read About Satanism The Church Of Body Modification And Scientology

Read about satanism ,the church of body modification and scientology (250)words and answer these questions. choose one to write about. Is this organization a religion according to the sociology definition?why or why not?(you may use Durkheims definition or any other sociological definition) What type of religion is it? How would a functionalist theorist understand and discuss this organization? How would a conflict theorist understand and discuss this organization?

Paper For Above instruction

The organization selected for analysis is Scientology, which is often regarded as a controversial religious movement. To determine whether Scientology qualifies as a religion according to sociological definitions, particularly Emile Durkheim's perspective, it is essential to examine its features. Durkheim defined religion as a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things that unite members of a moral community. Scientology exhibits several characteristics that align with this definition. It possesses a set of beliefs concerning spiritual existence, an organized set of practices such as auditing, and a community of followers who share these practices and beliefs, thus fostering social cohesion.

According to sociological perspectives, Scientology can be classified as a new religious movement (NRM) that functions to provide meaning and purpose to its adherents. It emphasizes a spiritual journey toward enlightenment and self-awareness, similar to more traditional religions. Its practices and beliefs function to promote social solidarity among members, which aligns with Durkheim's view of religion as a force that sustains social cohesion. Scientology’s rituals and hierarchical structures serve to reinforce group identity and shared values, further supporting its classification as a religion within sociological terms.

From a functionalist viewpoint, Scientology plays crucial roles within society. It provides a sense of community, moral guidance, and social stability for its members. Functionalists argue that religions, including Scientology, contribute to social integration by binding members through shared rituals and beliefs. These elements foster social cohesion, promote collective consciousness, and contribute to societal stability. Additionally, Scientology's emphasis on personal development aligns with the functionalist perspective that religion serves to support individual well-being and social order.

Contrarily, conflict theory critiques Scientology by emphasizing its potential role in perpetuating social inequalities and power dynamics. Conflict theorists argue that organizations like Scientology may serve the interests of powerful elites, maintaining social control over followers through exclusive doctrines and hierarchical structures. The organization’s control over members’ beliefs and behaviors can be viewed as mechanisms of social domination, which reproduce social hierarchies and inequalities. Moreover, conflicts regarding its legal status and accusations of exploitation highlight its contentious role within broader societal structures.

In conclusion, Scientology can be understood as a religion from sociological perspectives, fulfilling criteria related to shared beliefs, practices, and social cohesion. A functionalist perspective underscores its role in promoting social solidarity and personal development. Conversely, conflict theory emphasizes its potential to reinforce social inequalities and control. Both perspectives provide valuable insights into understanding the complex social functions and implications of Scientology.

References

• Donnelly, J. (2009). Scientology. ABC-CLIO.
• Heelas, P. (2011). The spiritual revolution: Why religion is giving way to spirituality. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Durkheim, E. (1912). The elementary forms of the religious life. Free Press.
• Luhmann, N. (2012). The differentiated society: An introduction to social systems theory. Polity Press.
• Rothstein, M. (2009). The Growth of Religious Movements. Routledge.
• Almond, P. (2010). New religious movements. Routledge.
• Kareem, D. (2014). Sociological perspectives on new religious movements. Journal of Sociology.
• Johnson, R. (2018). The sociology of religion: A critical view. Sage Publications.
• White, L. (2010). The evolution of religion in complex societies. University of California Press.
• Wuthnow, R. (2013). After the baby boomers: How twenty- and thirty-somethings are shaping American religion. Princeton University Press.