C-660 Sociology of Religion #160 Semester One 2010-2011 Rufus Burrow, Jr., Indiana Professor of Christian Thought Office #208 317) 931-2338; rburrow@cts.edu PURPOSE OF COURSE This course will examine sociological perspectives on religion, religious institutions, and their practices, with particular attention to the Christian religion. A question that will be prominent in much of our work this term is: What does it mean to think of religion, and more specifically Christianity, as a counter-cultural phenomenon in these early years of the 21 st century? By counter-culture is meant a set of values and norms of a group that radically and sharply contradict those of the dominant group. 1 Those who have been in previous classes with me know that the concern here is whether Christianity at its best has (or should have) a sharp prophetic edge. This of course would cause it to be in constant tension with the wider society, as well as those who claim to be leaders in the various Christian communities and who serve in bureaucratic capacities. Sociological studies have shown that Christianity in fact exhibits both prophetic and more priestly or pastoral characteristics under certain circumstances. We will have occasion to examine some of these in this course. In addition, we will try to determine what may be learned from this for the actual day-to-day work of ministry. The intention of the course is to introduce students to some of the basic concepts and principles of the sociology of religion, with strong attention to implications for ministry and the transformation of religious organizations and society. Attention will be given to sociological methodology as well as the value-neutral and value-laden approaches to the social sciences in general and the sociology of religion in particular. An issue we will want to get at is whether persons are ever completely value-neutral or completely objective about anything at all, let alone sociological and other subjects. One s stance in this regard will often affect how he views a particular social phenomenon, e.g., religion, race, gender, and sexual orientation. The two approaches that will occupy much of our time and attention will be the functional and conflict approaches to the sociology of religion and how these impinge on one s sociological definition of religion, as well as one s sense of what religion is and does. Moreover, we will consider the question of how religion affects society and world, and how they affect religion. Since not all religious organizations are the same, and therefore exist in and respond to society and the world differently, we will try to understand the dynamics and the causes involved in the sociological transformation of religious organizations (or their natural life cycles). For example, what religious, sociological, economic, political, cultural, and other factors may be involved in the movement from cult (or what 1 See J. Milton Yinger, Countercultures: The Promise and Peril of a World Turned Upside Down (New York/London: The Free Press, 1982), Chapter 1.
2 sociologists prefer to call New Religious Movements, [NRMs]) to sect, or sect to denomination, ecclesia, or church? In addition, we will consider the effects of these transformations on the socio-ethical outlook of the newly formed organization and implications for the behavior of members. For example, do sect-type religious organizations tend to respond to the world in ways similar to those of church-type groups? Do these groups differ in their theology and way of thinking about and doing Christian ethics? In a related sense we will examine the relationship between religion, race, gender, class, and sexual orientation. In addition, we will consider causes of the appearance of new religious movements (NRMs) and their sociological, theological, and ethical implications. Students should be aware that in most sociology of religion courses little attention is given theological and ethical implications of sociological findings and how these may affect the way one does ministry. This might be acceptable in a strictly secular university setting where the emphasis is on pure sociology and its methods. However, in the seminary environment, where most students are preparing for various callings in ministry, it is important to view the methods and findings in the sociology of religion as potential contributions to responsible and faithful ministry and living in the world. Therefore, it is important that we not stop with the conclusions of sociological studies, but that we consider the religious and ethical implications for ministry. What should be our behavior in light of the findings of sociologists of religion? If there is no relevance for ministry and responsible Christian living, then why bother? At almost every point, then, we will want to be thinking about what the sociology of religion may contribute to ministry and to faithful living in light of the gospel. This is why I will give an early lecture on the tension between theological social ethics and sociology of religion. I am, after all, not a sociologist of religion by training, but a theological social ethicist who takes the methodology of sociology of religion (and other social sciences) seriously. In addition, it is my contention that every theological discipline should take sociological methodology and the findings of sociology seriously. Each student will be encouraged to look at her denomination sociologically, with a primary focus on its natural history or sociological transformation. To this end the student will be required to write a 20-25 page term paper on this topic. Course lectures and readings will discuss and examine various aspects of the elements to be included in this paper. Moreover, when we get to the specific topic of the natural history of religious organizations I will, through lectures, provide a specific illustration of this, which is intended to give the student a good indication of what should be included in the term paper. This project should give the student a good sense of how his religious organization or group came to be what it is today, and what it may look like a generation or two from now if it continues along its present trajectory. For example, the group may have begun as a sect or as a result of a new religious movement (NRM or the less acceptable cult ), and may have, over the course of several generations, been transformed into an established sect or a denomination. Based on the group s natural history and its chief characteristics, beliefs, and practices today, I will want to know whether the student believes it will remain the same or be further transformed over the course of the next couple of generations, and why. In any case, for the thinking student the nature and
3 importance of this assignment should become clearer each week. Indeed, if one can forecast the nature of her religious organization over the course of the next generation, is it not also possible that with initiative and creativity she can be instrumental in causing a totally different outcome that may be better for the organization and its ministry? I have used Keith Roberts text, Religion in Sociological Perspective (now in its fourth edition, 2004) the vast majority of times since it was first published in 1984 (Dorsey Press), both because of its comprehensiveness and because of the author s intention about making its subject matter as accessible as possible to the novice who expresses interest in the sociology of religion. Roberts (the younger brother of my long time [now retired ] CTS colleague Bruce Roberts), also exhibits a broad and deep knowledge of and sensitivity to the contributions that Afrikan American males and to a lesser extent other people of color and women of all races make to the sociology of religion. (I am hopeful, however, that before long his text will pay much more attention to the contributions of womanists, mujeristas, and other women of color.) One can only be encouraged by the fact that Roberts does not write as if all the women are white, all the Afrikan Americans are males, and all the gays and lesbians are white, a criticism that some sociology of religion texts does not escape. 2 In my estimation Roberts text remains the best introductory book on the subject. He includes a substantial bibliography of both older and more recent sociological studies in religion and draws attention to numerous sociological studies that support his discussions. I find this to be very helpful to both teachers and students. However, if I had a wish list I would like to see at the end of each of his chapters the inclusion of a summation of one or two sociological studies in religion that give concrete illustrations of key issues that Roberts has discussed. Nevertheless, I am also aware that because of the already astronomical cost of textbooks such additions however important and helpful would only increase the price. As another option, however, Roberts might consider compiling a reader in sociology of religion that contains classical, contemporary, and more recent selections to accompany his outstanding introductory text. But even in this case there would be added cost to an already expensive textbook. And yet a good reader to supplement his text could be marketed to libraries, which means that multiple copies of such a text could be placed on reserve. 2 For example, I found this to be the case in the first edition of the otherwise good text by Kevin J. Christiano et al, Sociology of Religion: Contemporary Developments (2002). This is a limitation I hope was addressed in the second edition of the book (2008), since I pointed it out in a list of questions that the editor asked me to respond to regarding the first edition in September 2006.
4 REQUIRED TEXTS Keith A. Roberts, Religion in Sociological Perspective 4 th Edition LIBRARY RESERVE E. Clinton Gardner, Biblical Faith and Social Ethics Charles Glock and Rodney Stark, Religion and Society in Tension Charles Glock and Rodney Stark, Christian Beliefs and Anti-Semitism David Moberg, The Church as a Social Institution** Leo Rosten, ed., Religions of America** J. Milton Yinger, The Scientific Study of Religion** Gertrud Lenzer and Norman Birmbuam, ed., Sociology and Religion: A Book of Readings** **Any one or more of these will be helpful for the term paper. COURSE REQUIREMENTS 1. Attendance will be taken at each session. See the seminary s complete policy on attendance in the Student Handbook and Planner 2010-2011, 150. 2. Don t plagiarize. The full policy on Cheating and Plagiarism is in the Student Handbook 2010-2011, 177-78. 3. Two Summary-Analysis-Reflection Papers. Not less than 7 or more than 10 pages each. The paper should be typed and double-spaced. Students may use not more than three short (i.e., 3-6 line) quotations per page from the selection. Devote approximately 50-60% of the paper to summary (3.5-4 pages for a seven page paper). Devote the rest to critical discussion and analysis, noting what you agree-disagree with, and why. I suggest a two-part paper: one with a subheading devoted to summary, the other to analysis and response. You may select any one of the following to be submitted on November 3 rd and December 8 th. Select one from Glock and Stark (Religion and Society in Tension) for November 3 rd : Ch. 2 On the Study of Religious Commitment Ch. 6 The Dilemmas of the Parish Church Ch. 9 Religion and the Integration of Society Ch. 10 Class, Politics, and Religious Involvement Select one from Lenzer and Birnbaum for December 8 th. Any of these selections will be helpful in writing the term paper. Weber, Charisma: Its Revolutionary Character, 184-196 Troeltsch, The Three Types of Christian Community, 310-314 Niebuhr, The Social Sources of Denominationalism, 314-318 Weber, Church and Sect, 318-322
5 4. Three 3-5 page reflection papers from the Roberts text: 1) Conversion and Commitment (Ch. 5) on September 22 nd, 2) Marketing Religion (Ch. 14) on October 6 th, and Religion and Prejudice (Chs. 11, 12) on October 20 th. These papers will be read and commented on by the instructor. 5. TERM PAPER, 20-25 pages, on the topic: A Sociological Study of My Religious Group or Denomination. (See Guidelines for Term Papers in the Student Handbook [2010-2011], 175-77. Students should review the seminary s Policy on Cheating and Plagiarism in the same text [177-78]. Do yourself a favor and do not take this lightly. (I have known instances where students have been dismissed from the seminary for plagiarism.) I would say that whenever in doubt, quote it and footnote it.) The paper should be not less than 20 or more than 25 pages long, typed and double-spaced. (Term paper means you should begin thinking about and taking notes for your project right now, and be vigilant about working at it over the course of the entire semester.) This should not be a paper thrown together over a 2-3 week period! I promise you I will know should you make the mistake of resorting to this approach. I can also promise you that having done so you will lose. The paper should discuss how your group (local church or denomination) came to be. It should also show how and when the group was transformed from one type of religious organization to another, e.g., from sect or NRM to denomination, or what it is today. What were religious, theological, political, cultural, economic, and other factors involved in the transformation? The paper should also include your forecast or prediction of what your group may be like in the next generation or so, assuming that it continues along its present path. That is, based on present trends and signs, will your group likely be a church-type organization? Will it be a sect? What are the signs that this may occur? You will find the texts by Moberg and Yinger (both on library reserve), as well as Roberts, to be very helpful in the writing of this paper. For factual/statistical information about your denomination you may wish to consult Leo Rosten, ed., Religions of America: Ferment and Faith in an Age of Crisis (Revised Edition, on library reserve). You may, of course, consult other sources that provide more up to date information on your religious group. (Roberts provides statistical and related data on many religious groups. You may also consult your denominational offices.) In addition, as noted previously, I will devote several sessions to the sociological transformation of religious organizations, focusing on the Church of God Reformation Movement (the religious organization I grew up in, although I am no longer a member). These lectures will serve as an illustration of how one might approach the term paper. You may be creative in how you write this paper, but it should be absolutely clear that you have taken this class. That is, I want a paper written for the sociology of religion (reflecting sociological terminology, etc.), not church history (although your paper should include aspects of your church s or denomination s history). The only research you will need to do will be relative to the founder(s) of your religious organization, their leadership traits, and problems or issues that led to various shifts or transformations in the group. This latter information may also be found in a denominationspecific history book or your local church history (should you decide to focus on your local church). Was the founder(s) of the group charismatic? Illustrate with two or three
6 examples. What was their appeal to early followers? What happened in the second and third generation of leadership and how was the socio-ethical response to society and world (or lack thereof) affected? If you already know this history, and if you examined Roberts, Yinger, and-or Moberg, and have been attentive during course lectures, there will be little or no need to do additional sociological research as such. If you feel the need to look up sociological information on your religious group you may find the bibliography in Roberts to be helpful. PAPER DUE December 15 th by 5:00 pm. September 1 Orientation and Introduction to Course September 8 COURSE OUTLINE Review Course Syllabus Some Problems in the Sociological Study of Religion Readings: Roberts, Preface, Chs. 1, 2 September 15 Theological Social Ethics and Social Science Which Approach: Value-Free or Value-Laden? Readings: Gardner, Ch. 1; Review Roberts, pp. 28-30 September 22 Class Discussion on Conversion and Commitment Class Discussion on Sociology of Religion and my Local Church or Denomination Readings: Roberts, Ch. 5; Glock and Stark, Religion and Society in Tension, Ch. 2 3-5-page reflection paper due on Conversion and Commitment. Note what you learned from the selection in Roberts and how you reacted to it. Be prepared to share your ideas with the class. Paper to be handed in!!! September 29 Functional and Conflict Models of Religion Readings: Roberts, Ch. 3 Collateral Readings: Moberg, Chs. 10, 11; Yinger, Ch. 6
7 October 6 3-Student Discussion on Marketing Religion Raymond, Aubrey, Dustin 3-5 page reflection paper due on Marketing Religion. Note what you learned from the selection and how you reacted to it. Be prepared to share your ideas with the class. Paper to be handed in!!! Readings: Roberts, Ch. 14 (To be read by all students) October 11-15 NO CLASS: READING WEEK Readings: Roberts, Chs. 9, 10 October 20 3-Student Discussion on Religion and Prejudice: Race-Ethnicity, Gender, Anti-Semitism Nona, Mark, Brianne Readings: Roberts, Chs. 11, 12; Glock and Stark, Christian Beliefs and Anti-Semitism, Chs. 1, 2, 4, 7, 13 (To be read by all students) 3-5-page reflection paper due on Religion and Prejudice. Note what you learned from the selections and how you reacted to them. Be prepared to share your ideas with the class. Paper to be handed in!!! October 27 No Class Readings: Moberg, Chs. 3, 18 November 3, 10, 17; December 1 SUMMARY-REFLECTION PAPER DUE (November 3 rd ) Life Cycle/Transformation of Religious Organizations Readings: Roberts, Chs. 6, 7, 8; Birnbaum and Lenzer, 184-196, 310-322 Collateral Readings: Moberg, Chs. 4, 5; Yinger, Ch. 13 (Important for Term Paper!)
8 November 22-26 NO CLASS: READING WEEK/THANKSGIVING Readings: Continue readings for November 3, 10, 17; December 1 December 1 Sociology of Religion and the Future of the Church Readings: Roberts, Ch. 16; Moberg, Ch. 19 December 8 SUMMARY-REFLECTION PAPER DUE (December 8 th ) NO CLASS. WORK ON TERM PAPER December 15 NO CLASS: EXAM WEEK TERM PAPER DUE BY 9:00 p.m. (December 15 th )