bbc.com
Shift from Rationalism to Diffuse Spirituality Among Younger Generations
French sociologist Michel Maffesoli argues that younger generations are moving away from rationalism towards a more diffuse spirituality encompassing various practices, challenging the dominance of secular thought among elites and impacting societal values.
- What are the potential societal implications of this shift away from rationalism, and what role does the internet play in this transformation?
- Maffesoli suggests a cyclical pattern in societal shifts, with a saturation point reached after centuries of dominance by a particular ideology. He posits a move from a rationalist, Apollonian era to a Dionysian one emphasizing emotions and senses. The internet plays a key role in facilitating this search for the uncertain and imponderable, fostering the spread of diverse spiritual practices.
- How does Maffesoli distinguish between the secularization of a societal elite and the persistence of religious belief among the broader population?
- Maffesoli's concept of "urban tribes," spontaneous social groups united by lifestyle, challenges the "mass society" idea. His new book, "Nostalgia for the Sacred," reflects on contemporary shifts in people's connection with spirituality and the metaphysical. He argues that after a period of secularization in Western society, particularly among elites, a renewed interest in spirituality is emerging.
- What specific evidence supports Maffesoli's claim of a decline in rationalist thought and a rise in diffuse spirituality among younger generations?
- French sociologist Michel Maffesoli observes a decline in rationalist thought, particularly among younger generations who integrate emotion and senses into knowledge construction. This doesn't imply a return to traditional religions but a widespread, diffuse spirituality encompassing diverse practices like astrology, yoga, and meditation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing of the article centers around Maffesoli's perspective, presenting his ideas as a significant explanation for a broader societal shift. The headline and introduction emphasize the decline of rationalism and the rise of spirituality, potentially influencing the reader to accept this interpretation as definitive. While Maffesoli's expertise is acknowledged, alternative interpretations or dissenting views are largely absent, influencing reader interpretation toward his viewpoint.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, though the frequent use of terms like "nostalgia for the sacred" and "return of the sacred" might subtly influence the reader towards a more positive perception of this phenomenon. While descriptive, there aren't overtly loaded terms. More precise language could be used, such as replacing 'return of the sacred' with a more neutral phrase like 'increased interest in spirituality'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the perspective of Michel Maffesoli and his analysis of a shift away from rationalism in France and Europe. While it mentions Brazil, the analysis lacks depth and relies on the author's observations from brief visits. The article omits perspectives from Brazilian intellectuals, religious leaders, or younger generations regarding their views on secularization and the resurgence of spirituality. This omission limits the overall understanding of the phenomenon in a broader context. The article also neglects to discuss potential downsides or criticisms of this shift.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified dichotomy between rationalism and a resurgence of spirituality. It doesn't fully explore the complexities of the situation, such as the coexistence of both rational and spiritual beliefs within individuals, or the varied forms of spirituality. It suggests a shift from one to the other, possibly neglecting those who maintain a balance or those whose views don't fit neatly into either category.