State-Religion Relations in the Context of Rational Choice Theory: the Case of Russia

Abstract

The paper offers methodology of rational choice theory for the analysis of the statereligion relations in contemporary Russia. That theory is employed in economic and social sciences to explain rational behavior of individuals when choosing potential opportunities. The paper argues that the situation of the ‘religious market’ has developed in Russia that causes religious organizations to act as companies and firms offering services. It is connected with the state’s efforts to control religious organizations, which, in turn, have to compete with each other in order to receive certain benefits. The authors point out that religious pluralism has its boundaries. Religious supply is bound by demand, which is formed by the state. The paper argues that religious pluralism leads to religious organizations becoming more active. Therefore, they supply more services. The paper concludes by arguing that individual religious demand is actively supported by religious organizations. That causes the formation of rational relationship and rational behavior of religious organizations. Drawing on that argument the theory allows to explain patterns and mechanisms of the state-religion relations in contemporary Russia.