Critical Review
Religion in Society: A Sociology of Religion is a book written by Ronald Johnstone. It gives an overview of the role of religion in the society. in his presentation, Ronald focuses on the position of religion as an agent of socialization in the United States of America (USA). This paper gives a critical analysis of the text. It does this by critiquing the author’s position on his definition of religion, church, denomination, sect and cult; rational choice theory; bureaucratization of religion and elements in religious socialization.
In his writings, Ronald gives accurate definitions to religion, church, denomination, sect and cult. This demonstrates that he is a reputable scholar who is able to conduct extensive research for the purpose of disseminating information to his audience. From his position, it is evidenced that religion is a ‘universal part of human life’ (Thio, 2004). As an important part of culture and ethics, it is practiced by all the people from different corners of the world. Even atheists at times have to give reverence to the supernatural. However, just like in the United States of America (USA), Christianity has been split into various churches, denominations, sects and cults. These are mere divisions which have broken away from the mainline churches as a result of doctrinal, personal and cultural conflicts. It has threatened the unity of Christianity as witnessed by the Methodist Church. However, I would like to point out that they are not necessary and should be condemned. Schism is a very bad thing which should not be encouraged. Instead, everyone should be urged to be tolerant and be ready to work for the unity of the entire Christian community. They should embrace dialogue as the best way to resolve any disagreement which may arise as a result of their unnecessary extremist stances. Christians should view themselves as one body because they have something to unite them. It is my considered opinion that the mushrooming of sects and cults should not be tolerated any more. It is not only scandalous, but also threatens the prosperity of this religion.
Ronald gives a candid examination of the rational choice theory. As a sociologist, he understands the relationship between religion and reason. Although it heavily relies on faith, a fruitful understanding of religion requires reason. I would like to support him for saying that religion should be reasonably used to make it more utilitarian. Thus, he asserts that rationality is crucial in a clear understanding of religion and its reciprocal relationship with the rest of the society. He is right for making such a claim because religion can only produce optimal benefits to the society if rationally used. As Abella says, it is for this reason that ‘philosophers believe that religion can not be separated from reason’ (2006). It makes it more comprehensive and relevant. If used rationally, it may be useful to humanity and enable them solve their day to day problems.
In the chapter three of this text, Ronald discusses about the bureaucratization of religion. He says that religion, just like any other organization, should be organized. Meaning, it should have a planned structure which helps in a proper coordination of all its activities. I would like to concur with him for making such a claim. His argument holds water because religious groups are subject to expansion. This is a common scenario in the contemporary society in which the numerous religious groups are experiencing a tremendous growth. There is need to establish sub-units which can be fused into the mainstream structure to make it more integrated (Sears, 2008). In this regard, I would like to point out that religious organizations should create different offices to perform specific roles. In deed, the complexity of the societies makes it inevitable for churches to provide t different offices in order to improve their services to the followers. This explains why many churches now have the office of the Pope, Arch-Bishop, bishop, priest, catechist, deaconess, just to mention, but a few. They are all instrumental in uniting different sections of the church.
In his discussion, Ronald gives an accurate analysis of the role of religion as a social agent. Although it seeks to provide spiritual nourishment to the believers, religion serves as an integral agent of socialization in the society. As the author examines, it is a very important social institution which brings different people together. Despite the complexities of life, it grants people an ample opportunity to interact with other sections of the society. In deed, this is an informed argument. As a sociologist, I believe that religion is a social institution. A part from depending on other social agents, it satisfies people’s needs because of its dynamics. It is able to achieve this since it is a collection of various worldviews, beliefs and cultural practices. Hence, it is able to influence each person regardless of their position. For instance, parents do take their children to the church to make them conform to the Christian ways f life. This is necessary for their interactions with the entire society.
I would also like to agree with this author for arguing that religion should strive to address the needs of different classes of the society. As he explains, it should apply the principles of conflict theory to promote understanding and harmony amongst the people. Naturally, the society is a very diverse place composed of different classes of people. As Karl Marx explains, such a scenario necessitates the break up of conflicts. As the comfort of the oppressed, religion should provide hope to them (Stark, 2007). Although they feel oppressed, they should provide solace in religion. It is for this reason that Ronald holds that religion should be used as a conflict resolution tool. Meaning, it should focus on the plights of the oppressed population. It can accomplish this by deflecting their actions and emphasizing on the root causes of their agonies. In my opinion, I would like suggest that religion should not be used to advance division, but to eradicate all forms of segregations which may eventually tear the society a part. If it focuses on this aspect, it will help in removing any bias and establish a conflict-free society.
In conclusion, I would like to commend Ronald for writing such an invaluable text. In deed, Religion in Society: A Sociology of Religion is an insightful book which provides a lot of information on religion. it is properly written by a reputable authority. Although I concur with his arguments, I would like to fault him for focusing on the United States of America (USA). He failed to realize that religion is a universal exercise practiced by people from all corners of the world. This makes this book be narrow and unsuitable for the general study of Sociology of Religion.
Works Cited
Abella, Alex. Soldiers of Reason: The RAND Corporation and the Rise of the American Empire. New York: Harcourt. 2006, Print.
Sears, Alan. A Good Book, In Theory: A Guide to Theoretical Thinking. North York: Higher Education University of Toronto Press. 2008, Print.
Stark, Rodney. Sociology (10th ed.). Thomas Wadsworth. 2007, Print.
Thio, Alex. Sociology: A Brief Introduction (7th ed.). Pearson. 2004, Print.
