Rational Choice Theory Of Religion Essay

The sociology of religion is easiest to define by understanding the core of sociology. According to Ronald Johnstone in Religion and Society, the goal of sociology is to “[understand] the dynamics of group life” and “[understand] the influence of groups on individual and collective behavior” (Johnstone 2). This goal is sought under the assumption that “people become human only in groups” (Johnstone 4). Thus, the sociology of religion is the study of religion from the perspective of humans as communicative and influenceable beings, both on an individual level and more importantly, as religious groups. This means that the sociology of religion is less about specific religious belief systems and more about the implications and influence of religious

Under the Rational Choice Theory, people use their experience, preferences, desires, needs, and understanding of costs when choosing their religion. It acknowledges the existence, history, and influence of religious beliefs and institutions that leads to “people turn[ing] to those ideas and systems for answers, consolation, protection, promises, and solutions” (Johnstone 37). Now that I’ve learned about the Rational Choice Theory, I do believe that it fully explains why believers choose their religion. Last year, I wrote an essay around my thesis that religion, unlike any other belief system (such as a purely scientific approach), provides an enhanced sense of autonomy to believers. Through religion, believers may feel they have some control over the course of their lives because of their connection to their God(s) or their ability to pray and follow their religion’s practices. I think this can definitely influence believers’ choice of religion or even their choice to be religious at all. The Rational Choice Theory is much more exhaustive than my original belief, but I think it follows some of my reasonings that brought me to my thesis. I don’t believe that the Rational Choice Theory is a conscious thought by believers. Instead, there are subconscious reasons behind every decision we make and analyzing those reasons can lead to a deeper and fuller understanding of the sociology of