Work as a Site of Deprivatized Religion: Faith-work Integration Efforts of Twentieth Century Evangelicalism

• In Event: 341 - Section on Sociology of Religion Refereed Roundtable Session and Business Meeting
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 09. Evangelical Affiliation and Non-Affiliation

Abstract

Abstract: This paper follows Casanova (1994) in disaggregating earlier secularization theories that characterized modern religion as institutionally sequestered. While sociologists have for many reasons dismissed linear and determinist secularization theories, classical theory's account of sphere differentiation and the expulsion of cultural norms from the economic sphere--whether following Weber, Polanyi, or Parsons--have obstructed analysis of modern religious forms seeping into economic life. Paralleling Casanova's accounts of religion surging back into the political sphere, I outline an historical account of American Evangelicalism steadily increasing its focus on the economic sphere over the course of the 20th century. Drawing on discourse, book production, and resource mobilization, I sketch out three different eras of theological orientations toward one's work life--compartmentalized mysticism, engaged piety, and integrated faith. Each of these three eras provides cultural frameworks through which Evangelicals locate their work lives within their moral and social imaginary. I draw on this historical data as preliminary evidence to argue shifts in theological orientations toward work are likely guided by both economic and cultural forces.

Author

• Andrew Paul Lynn, University of Virginia