The Sociology of Conversion : A Critical Appraisal

Abstract

This paper is a critical assessment of conversion studies in sociology. First I clarify the objectives of the sociology of conversion in contrast with the psychology of conversion. Then I summarize various factors that previous studies use to explain the conversion phenomenon. Second, I examine the “passive actor” and the “active agency” approach to conversions. The passive actor approach tends to attribute individuals' conversions to their psychological traits and social situations, and to regard conversion as a passive and vulnerable state. The active agency approach tends to explain conversion by using concepts such as individual will, choice, and effort, and considers conversion as a search for meaning. I argue that these two approaches should be integrated in order to explore individuals' conversions, which are not only conditioned by their traits and social circumstances, but also are accomplished through their own efforts. Third, to integrate these seemingly contradictory but complementary perspectives, I explore the Lofland-Stark conversion process model. This model provides seven necessary and cumulatively sufficient conditions for becoming a convert. The seven conditions encompass not only social and psychological factors but also actors' own efforts to attain a meaningful life. Finally, I point out some important modifications that the Lofland-Stark model needs, and conclude that it would be a starting point in comprehensively exploring the conversion phenomenon in future research.