The Social Dimensions of Sectarianism

Bryan Wilson explores the complex relationships between religious sects and contemporary Western society. He examines the controversial social, political and religious issues that arise as sects seek to pursue a way of life at variance with that of other people, and which at times bring them into conflict with outsiders or with the state. Sects are often subject to negative theological and moral judgements that are by no means always well-informed. Dr Wilson asserts that they can be understood only as social entities, and that, as in the case of other social phenomena, a scientifically neutral and unbiased approach is essential if their emergence and persistence are to be explained. He traces the growth and expansion of various movements, such as the Unification Church, the Scientologists, Jehovah's Witnesses and the Exclusive Brethren, relates them to their social context, and indicates the sections of society from which their support is likey to come. Particular essays are devoted to the attraction of sects for converts, the means by which commitment is sustained, and the personal and social consequences of sectarianism.