ABSTRACT

This chapter asserts that the structure of civil society and religion within a given context and the institutional structure of religious organisations and networks determine the extent of the effectiveness of religious non-conformists. The concept of religious non-conformism has historical foundations. Since religio-political non-conformists share some characteristics with social movements, some aspects of social movement theory can be deployed as analytical tools, albeit without reducing the organisations to movements. Cultural identity theory is based on the assumption that individuals act on the basis of their beliefs and ideas. Resource mobilisation affects the capacity of movements seeking change. The chapter explains the Weber's reflection on the importance of structures was prompted by the fact that the sect associations he discovered on his visit to America could not be easily identified with the uniquely German framework of Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft. It explains about Political opportunities can be relatively open or closed.