Those Who Choose: A New Conceptual Model for the Origin of Religious Schisms

Authors

Benjamin R. Hassan, The College of WoosterFollow

Abstract

I propose that a conceptual framework for the analysis of religious schisms and heresy based on sociopolitical concerns can enhance our understanding of heterodoxy. After a brief summary of the work Religious Studies scholars have previously done on heterodoxy and lived religion, I then define the four distinct lenses of my framework: lay following, influential individuals, conservative forces, and geopolitics. After explaining the strengths of this approach, I then apply my framework to three case studies: Unitarian Universalism, the medieval Nizari state, and Yiguandao.

Advisor

Mirza, Sarah

Department

Religious Studies

Recommended Citation

Hassan, Benjamin R., "Those Who Choose: A New Conceptual Model for the Origin of Religious Schisms" (2021). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 9581.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/9581

Disciplines

Religion

Publication Date

2021

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis