Part I. The Relation between Religious Belief and Structural Change in Religious Orders: Developing an Effective Measuring Instrument

Abstract

Religious beliefs as held by the members play significant roles in the process of structural change in religious communities. The attachment of some persons to existing structures is defined by them in religious terms as is also the willingness of others to give up these same structures and to introduce new ones. Holding certain religious beliefs predicts resistance to certain structural changes. Holding other religious beliefs predicts readiness for change. The relationship of religious beliefs to resistance to change and openness to change is not, however, parallel, nor is it similar in all cases of resistance and openness, but there are recognizable patterns. A measure of religious belief that is valid and reliable is a necessary instrument for determining what relationships exist and what differences are observable. Part I of this report deals with the background of the question of religious belief and structural change and the development of a usable measure of belief.