Abstract
This thesis explores attitudes about the New Age movement from the perspective of those within it, suggesting a positive correlation between the movement and Victor Turner's theory of religion along with Anthony F.C. Wallace's model of revitalization movements. A series of ten interviews were conducted with individuals whom are either participants in the New Age or, despite their uncertainty with the label, accept many of its principles; one other interviewee does not associate with the New Age at all. A Course in Miracles and The Celestine Prophecy, two works frequently mentioned in connection with the New Age, were also reviewed. Results showed that while members of the movement reject the religion label, the New Age does contain religios elements; it also provides proponents with a working explanation of the world. In addition, the movement contains revitalized Eastern, Western, and Native American ideas. Results also made the extremely broad nature of the New Age abundantly clear. Future research is suggested, focusing on other theories which could be applied to the movement, comparisons to other historical movements, and the direction the New Age might take in the future.
Advisor
Kardulias, P. Nicholas
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
Recommended Citation
Rogers, Jane, "The New Age Movement: a Study of New Age Philosophy as Well as Its Relationship to Religion and Revitalization Movements in the Almost 21St Century" (1997). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 6338.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/6338
Publication Date
1997
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 1997 Jane Rogers