The appeal of spirituality “Religion” and the private sphere Secular institutions and freedom “not to believe” Considerable interest in mysticism and spirituality

Taking these phenomena seriously Too often dismissed as – Religion “lite” – Irrational and trivial Why take it seriously? – Significant culturally and economically – Like fundamentalism, a challenge to prediction of “rationalization”

Transcendence Experiences and pursuits that stress – Personal achievement, betterment – “Communitas” – Raves, festivals, “pilgrimages” – Others?

“New Age” Umbrella term for wide range of practices and beliefs with overt spiritual content – Wicca, channeling, alternative medicine, UFO religions, women-centered spirituality

Unifying themes (in addition to transcendence of self) – Immanent power – Utilitarian – Individualistic – Magic and mysticism – Distrust of organized religion – Well adapted to the commercial sector

Why so imprecise? Key is the tenacity of “spirituality” oriented practices Also seeing roots of the philosophies of body and spirit in long standing cultural tradition – Enlightenment/knowledge and revelation part of Christian tradition though often subdued

Followers of New Age Largely made up of middle class – Mostly Caucasian – Adepts – ie mediums, ritual specialists – may be more socially marginal – More emphasis on female practice, leadership than in other religious domains

Roots of New Age Beginnings in 19 th c spiritualism Folklore revival of same period 1960s counterculture – “rediscovery” of Asia Women’s movement Environmental activism, alternative medicine movements

Rationalism and New Age Seems very “irrational” to critics – Alternative medical therapies – Communication with spirits – Incorporation of elements of Asian religions (e.g. reincarnation, meditation)

And yet… Generally well-educated clientele – No lack of exposure to science and logic Use of “scientific” language – Early spiritualist thought in close communication with scientific/mathematical discoveries

Explanations of New Age… “Anomie”..??? Working out of existing trends in American society Access to power/effectiveness

Everyday “spirituality” Not all “religious” behavior captured in formal practice “The problem with religion is not in defining it, but in finding it..” (Geertz)