Which came first? Religion or society? The chicken-egg question aside, most religions began as cults or break-away movements, and as they grew or came to dominate, their status changed from “fringe” to mainstream denomination or major world religion.
In your opinion, will any of the emergent religious groups of the past 50-100 years have staying power or influence the power of major world religions? Why or why not? Be sure to cite particular groups. The chapter on “Society and the Sacred” has several examples, as does Part 5 of WORLD RELIGIONS IN AMERICA, p. 251-353, and the last chapter of ANATOMY OF THE SACRED, p. 339-395.
Have you picked an emergent religion to write about for the research essay? Which one(s) are you drawn to and want to know more about? This assignment isn’t due until November 16, but it is a good idea to choose soon and have a look around for other sources.
Which religious person did you write about for Response 3 which is due next week? Why were you attracted to this person/topic?
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