Sociology / Unit 8 Soc 1335 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Rational Choice Theory of Religion
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The idea
Rational choice theory of religion models religious affiliation as weighing costs, such as time and commitment, against rewards, such as meaning and community.
In practice
In a pluralistic market of denominations, congregations compete for members much as firms compete for customers.
Where people slip
Critics argue the model cannot account for faith itself or for people with no apparent need for religious explanation.
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