A New Model of Religious Conversion: Beyond Network Theory and Social Constructivism

Based on the analysis of 52 conversion narratives to various religious groups, A New Model of Religious Conversion utilizes case studies for comparison of converts’ backgrounds, network influence, and conversion narratives. The author convincingly illustrates a fit between the converts’ background and the religion they convert to, such as between disorganized family backgrounds and highly structured religions. Conversely, those from highly structured backgrounds often convert to more open groups. The book also makes it clear that not all conversions are influenced by networks or align themselves with a social constructivist view of a conversion as an account. Taking converts’ trajectories seriously, the author makes a strong case for the application of biographical sociology to the study of conversion and (American) sociology overall.