Debunking the Secularization Theory
In the sociology of religion, theorists have conceived various models to explain religiosity in the modern world. The theory of secularization explains that religious authority weakens as the modernizing world embraces scientific knowledge and rationalization. However Stark and Finke dedicate their argument to the idea that religiosity does not diminish in society. They argue that the scientific community cannot offer the comfort of non-scientific knowledge despite the modernizing world. They subvert the notion by rationalists that since humans are rational beings over time they will abandon religious behavior. They assert that the paradigm shift in modern religion is not about the validity of spiritual beliefs but the religious economy.
The Evolving Religious Economy
The book delves into the theory of religious economy to expound on the dynamics of religious groups and religiosity. Stark and Finke equate religion to a product or commodity that is influenced by the market of religious groups. In that, the competition between religions determines the religious behavior of the masses. They affirm that the religiosity of the society is determined by the diverse religious groups present. The argument favors the idea that the availability of many religious groups fosters religious behavior rather than hinder it. Thus, highlight why religious observance and church attendance have positively shifted in certain regions while declining in others. The restriction of supply in religion either by imposed state secularization or religious monopoly plays a role in the populace’s observance.
Individual Religious Choice
Stark and Finke break down different aspects of religious behavior to the personal sphere in terms of choices. As suggested in the title they analyze the human side of religion in how they interact with religion. Therefore expounds on the new paradigm in religion as the religious economy impacts society. Specifically, they highlight the shifts in religious expression either through conversion or reaffiliation. Where conversion is shifting across one’s religious tradition and reaffiliation as the shift from one religious group to another within that religion. The book analyzes the factors that drive religious choices that are independent of the larger external pressures or forces.
