20th Annual Student Research Conference
Social Science
The Survival of Esoteric Religious Communities in Oppressive Societies: Brazilian Candomble and Islamic Sufism
Marshall F. Edwards
Dr. Dereck Daschke, Faculty Mentor
It is the tendency of an oppressive society, in its efforts to exercise control over its people, to homogenize religious practice and integrate religious and political hierarchies. While this process often leads to the destruction of traditional and minority worship styles, some esoteric religious societies are able to survive despite scrutiny or persecution. I will be examining two such religious systems: Afro-Brazilian Candomble and Islamic Sufism. By analyzing the ways in which these esoteric communities interact with their societies, I will point out organizational similarities and coping methods which have helped guarantee their survival.
Keywords: candomble, sufism, society, oppression, religious community, power, esoterism
Topic(s):Philosophy & Religion
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 64-1
Location: OP 2111
Time: 2:45 pm