Catholics vs. Irreligious Communists: Worldviews and Political Views
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Catholiques déclarés et irréligieux communisants : vision du monde et perception du champ politique(Self-declared Catholics and Self-declared Irréligions Communist Sympathizers : Conceptions of the World and Ways of Apprehending the Political Sphère).
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Original source:
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Guy Michelat
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Catholiques déclarés et irréligieux communisants : vision du monde et perception du champ politique(Self-declared Catholics and Self-declared Irréligions Communist Sympathizers : Conceptions of the World and Ways of Apprehending the Political Sphère).
Year: 1973
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The research analyzes the attitudes and perceptions of two groups in French society: declared Catholics and self-declared irreligious individuals with communist sympathies. Through non-directive interviews, the study reveals the contrasting worldviews and political perceptions between these two demographics. The research highlights how these contrasting ideologies are rooted in historical and cultural contexts, underscoring the stark differences in their approaches to social and political issues.
The Role of Religion in Political Perception
The declared Catholics exhibit a deep-rooted connection to their religious beliefs, which significantly shape their political views. They perceive communism as an existential threat to their family and cultural values, associating it with destruction and violence. This group's worldview prioritizes the preservation of individual, family, and cultural identity, viewing communism as contrary to these values. Their awareness is focused on the 'natural order,' thereby reinforcing their commitment to traditional structures and a hierarchy that aligns with their religious framework.
Class Consciousness Among the Irreligious
In contrast, the irreligious (mostly from the working class) center their political attitudes around class consciousness. They perceive the political landscape as a battleground between bosses and workers, viewing church and religion as peripheral compared to their class-related concerns. The self-declared irreligious group expresses attitudes organized around class belonging and underscores the significance of unions in defending their interests against exploitation. Unlike the Catholics, who resist change, this group acknowledges their collective identity in the struggle against capitalist oppression.
Ambivalence Towards the Political Sphere
Both groups express ambivalent relationships towards politics, albeit for different reasons. Catholics view politics as a confusing and often negative realm which can threaten their spiritual values, leading to a sense of disconnection from contemporary political discourse. On the other hand, the irreligious also express frustration, highlighting their disillusionment with political leaders, whom they see as out of touch with the realities of working-class life. Their emphasis on collective action through labor unions shows a pragmatic approach to achieving better conditions rather than engaging politically.
The Importance of Collective Action
Collective action emerges as a critical theme for both groups. Catholics emphasize community and family as essential cultural units that must be preserved against outside threats, while the irreligious focus on the power of unions as their instrument of political influence. Both groups recognize the importance of solidarity; however, for the irreligious, this action is rooted in their class consciousness rather than religious obligation. The contrast illustrates how the irreligious constituency views their fight for rights as a social necessity, while committed Catholics frame their involvement similarly as fulfilling their moral responsibility.
Conclusion
This research reveals the intricate dynamics between religion, class consciousness, and political perception in France. It underscores the dichotomy between two subcultures: one that is motivated by faith and tradition, and the other by class struggle and practical concerns. These differences highlight the varying constructions of social identity and community engagement, suggesting that understanding the complexities of these cultural perspectives is crucial for addressing contemporary social and political challenges in France. This study's insights may serve as a foundation for further exploration of the relationship between religion and political behavior, as well as the ongoing tensions between these contrasting ideologies.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the focus of the research study conducted by Michelat and Simon?
The study focused on the perspectives of two groups: self-declared Catholics and self-declared irreligious workers, particularly on their worldview and political perceptions.
How were interview participants selected for this study?
Participants were chosen based on their expected attitudes towards the study’s themes, aiming for diversity in sex, age, profession, region, and living conditions.
What major themes emerged from the Catholic participants' interviews?
Catholic participants expressed a central focus on family, culture, and religion, often viewing communism as a significant threat to these values.
What did irreligious participants express regarding their views on class?
Irreligious participants primarily identified with class belonging, viewing issues through a boss/worker dichotomy, and expressed less concern for religious matters.
How did the two groups perceive the political landscape differently?
Catholics viewed politics through a lens heavily influenced by their religious beliefs, while irreligious individuals approached it primarily from a class struggle perspective.
In what ways did communism feature in the interviews with both groups?
Communism was seen as both a threat and a misunderstood ideology; Catholics viewed it negatively, while irreligious participants recognized some beneficial elements under specific circumstances.
What role did the concept of family play in the interviews?
Family was central for Catholics, seen as essential to personal identity, while irreligious participants emphasized class solidarity over familial ties.
Did the participants express any ambivalence towards political engagement?
Yes, both groups displayed ambivalence, with Catholics fearing communism while irreligious participants noted frustration with political structures but acknowledged the necessity of political action.
What is indicated about the relationship between religion and politics in their responses?
Religion was viewed as both a unifying force for Catholics and a divisive factor for irreligious participants, highlighting their respective cultural contexts.
What conclusions did the researchers draw regarding the two distinct political models?
Researchers concluded that two distinct subcultures exist, one rooted in Catholic values and the other in working-class solidarity, influencing political behaviors and attitudes.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Catholics vs. Irreligious Communists: Worldviews and Political Views”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Family:
Family relates to the fundamental social unit, representing emotional ties, support, and values passed through generations. It embodies the warmth and personal connections essential for individual identity, reflecting the core of existence and shaping the environment in which children grow, contribute to their education, and nurture love and spiritual growth. Family represents a shelter against societal pressures and embodies traditions crucial for stability and continuity.
2) Politics:
Politics encompasses the activities associated with governance, authority, and societal organization. It represents the framework within which power dynamics, rights, and responsibilities are negotiated. The political landscape shapes the conditions of existence for individuals and groups, influencing the way people can express their freedoms and pursue their aspirations, while also imposing structures that may restrict or enhance their engagement with the surrounding world.
3) Union:
Union refers to an organized association, particularly of workers, formed to advocate for collective interests, such as fair wages and working conditions. It symbolizes solidarity among individuals, enhancing their power to negotiate against management and politics. Through dialogue and coordinated actions, a union serves as a protective shield, enabling workers to assert their rights and strive for dignity in the workplace, fostering a sense of belonging and communal strength.
4) Religion:
Religion forms the belief system that defines an individual's worldview, imparting spiritual values and moral guidelines. It serves as a source of identity, stability, and community engagement, often at odds with political agendas that can challenge personal faith. Religion emphasizes the importance of charity, love, and the transcendence of the human experience, impacting how adherents interact with different socio-political environments and perceive existence.
5) Child (Children):
Child represents the youngest members of society, embodying innocence, potential, and the future. The care and education of children reflect societal values, priorities, and hopes. Recognizing the child's role within the family and community stresses the importance of nurturing and preserving cultural heritage, ensuring emotional and spiritual growth.
6) Freedom:
Freedom embodies the essential human right to choose, act, and express oneself without undue restraint. It is intricately linked to personal identity and the quality of life of individuals within their environment. The longing for freedom influences social structures and movements, often serving as a catalyst for change in the face of oppression. Cultivating a deep understanding of freedom is crucial for maintaining a vibrant, emotionally resonant existence.
7) Nature:
Nature establishes the fundamental framework within which human existence unfolds. It encompasses biological, emotional, and societal aspects, shaping perceptions of reality and influencing relationships. Acknowledging nature is essential in understanding the balance between human aspiration and existential limits, serving as a backdrop against which personal stories and collective narratives are set and evolve.
8) Power:
Power denotes the capacity to influence, control, or direct actions and outcomes within social hierarchies. It is often sought after and contested, affecting the dynamics between different groups, including the relationships between employers and employees. Recognizing how power operates within various spheres, such as politics, religion, and the workplace, is vital for navigating social environments and asserting individual or collective rights.
9) Woman (Women):
Women represent half of humanity, often subject to distinct societal roles and challenges. Their experiences, contributions, and aspirations shape culture and politics. Addressing women's rights and equality is essential for achieving broader societal justice and enhancing the overall well-being of communities.
10) Human:
Human signifies the collective experience shared by individuals, encompassing emotions, aspirations, and the search for meaning. It emphasizes the inherent dignity and spiritual depth of every person, often in contrast with materialistic interpretations of existence. Fostering a deep understanding of what it means to be human is crucial for dialogue, empathy, and the pursuit of communal wellbeing.
11) Experience:
Experience refers to the accumulated knowledge and understanding gained through personal encounters and challenges. It shapes individual worldviews, guiding actions and perspectives on life, love, and existence. Experience fosters empathy and connection, providing insights that inform choices in both personal relationships and social engagements, while also contributing to consciousness and identity.
12) Spiritual:
Spiritual refers to the dimension of human experience that transcends physical existence, often linked to faith, morality, and the essence of self. It encompasses the search for meaning and connection to a higher power, influencing how individuals perceive love, charity, and their role in the world. Spirituality plays a crucial role in forming identity and guiding ethical choices, often providing solace and strength.
13) Money:
Money symbolizes the economic means of exchange and functioning within society, impacting power dynamics and individual freedoms. It creates opportunities for growth and stability, yet also poses challenges, such as greed, inequality, and materialism. Understanding the role of money is essential for navigating personal ambitions and societal structures, affecting relationships and social status.
14) Fear:
Fear denotes the emotional response to perceived threats or uncertainties, heavily shaping behavior and decision-making processes. It often acts as a barrier to freedom, influencing social interactions, political engagement, and personal relationships. Understanding the roots of fear can empower individuals to confront anxiety, enabling them to pursue meaningful connections and assert their rights.
15) Existence:
Existence encapsulates the state of being alive, encompassing experiences, emotions, and interactions within one's environment. It merges the physical and the spiritual, reflecting the quest for meaning, connection, and purpose. Existence is influenced by relationships, cultural values, and individual choices, with lasting implications on identity and societal belonging.
16) Feeling:
Feeling reflects the emotional responses and sensations that arise from experiences, guiding individuals' interactions and decisions. It is integral to personal relationships, influencing dynamics within families, communities, and institutions. Recognizing and valuing emotions enhance dialogue, empathy, and understanding in both personal and social contexts.
17) Charity:
Charity signifies the act of giving and caring for those in need, deeply rooted in many religious and moral frameworks. It embodies love and compassion, fostering community bonds and shared humanity. Engaging in charity represents a commitment to improving society, emphasizing the importance of generosity in combating isolation and social injustice.
18) Love:
Love is a profound emotional connection that fosters unity and belonging among individuals. It serves as a fulcrum for relationships, impacting family dynamics, friendships, and broader social interactions. Love motivates actions of compassion, aligning personal desires with collective responsibilities, and plays a critical role in defining one's identity and existence.
19) Farmer:
Farmer denotes a person engaged in agriculture, embodying a connection to land, traditions, and sustenance. They play a vital role in food production and the stewardship of rural life, symbolizing resilience, hard work, and community values. Understanding the farmer's perspective enriches discussions on material and spiritual relationships with nature and society.
20) Doctrine:
Doctrine represents the structured set of beliefs or principles that inform individuals' worldviews and practices. It plays a significant role in religion and ideology, influencing moral and ethical behavior, especially in societal dynamics. Analyzing doctrine allows for an exploration of the convictions that bind communities and guide political or social actions.
21) Faith:
Faith signifies trust or belief in something greater, often associated with religious or spiritual convictions. It provides individuals with hope, purpose, and a framework for understanding existence beyond tangible realities. The role of faith is pivotal in shaping personal identity and guiding ethical decisions, especially in challenging circumstances.
22) Lead:
Lead refers to the act of guiding, influencing, or directing others, often associated with positions of authority or responsibility. It encompasses the ability to inspire, motivate, and coordinate efforts toward a common goal, whether in a family, community, or organizational context. Effective leadership is crucial for achieving collective aspirations and fostering unity.
23) Environment:
Environment encompasses both the physical and social surroundings in which individuals live and grow. It directly influences health, safety, and well-being, impacting emotional and spiritual development. Acknowledging the environment's role is crucial for understanding interactions and relationships, as well as the responsibilities toward sustainability and communal harmony.
24) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the gradual development or change in individuals or societies over time. It encapsulates the processes of growth, adaptation, and transformation that shape human experience. Understanding evolution requires a comprehensive view of personal and collective history, allowing for greater insights into current challenges and future possibilities.
25) Education:
Education symbolizes the formal and informal processes through which knowledge, skills, and values are imparted. It plays a foundational role in shaping individuals' identities, fostering critical thinking, and preparing them for societal participation. Education influences personal experiences, perceptions, and aspirations, highlighting the importance of nurturing talent and fostering development.
26) Cold:
Cold evokes the absence of warmth, both physically and emotionally. It symbolizes detachment, lack of intimacy, or connection, often representing environments where feelings are stifled, and relationships are superficial. The concept of cold can contrast sharply with notions of love, family, and community, emphasizing the need for deeper emotional engagement.
27) Dialogue:
Dialogue represents open communication and exchange of ideas between individuals or groups. It fosters understanding, empathy, and collaboration, serving as a foundation for resolving conflicts and building relationships. Effective dialogue is essential for nurturing a cohesive community and advancing collective goals.
28) Fight:
Fight signifies struggle or resistance against injustice, oppression, or adversity. It embodies the commitment to uphold rights and advocate for change, representing both physical and emotional battles. Fighting can also symbolize the collective stance of individuals or groups striving for dignity and equality.
29) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding and information gained through experience, education, and inquiry. It is crucial for informed decision-making and shaping perspectives. The pursuit of knowledge fosters critical thinking and self-awareness, contributing to personal and societal evolution.
30) House:
House denotes the physical structure where one's family resides, symbolizing security, comfort, and belonging. It reflects personal identity and cultural heritage, serving as a sanctuary that nurtures relationships and emotional well-being. The concept of a house extends to the community, representing social connections and shared identity.
31) Image:
Image represents the mental representation or perception people have of people, places, and ideas. It impacts how individuals understand and interact with the world around them. The cultivation of positive images is essential for fostering respect, understanding, and empathy within diverse societies.
32) Perception:
Perception refers to the way individuals interpret and understand the reality around them. It is shaped by personal experiences, emotions, and cultural influences, influencing how one engages with others and navigates social interactions.
33) Language:
Language encompasses the system of communication and expression, shaping interactions among individuals and communities. It reflects cultural identity and values, facilitating dialogue and understanding. Mastering language enhances the ability to convey feelings, share experiences, and engage meaningfully with others.
34) Universe:
Universe denotes the entirety of existence encompassing all beings, ideas, and realities. It evokes the interconnectedness of life and the complexities of the human experience, reflecting the grand tapestry that binds individuals and societies together.
35) Future:
Future signifies the time yet to come, representing hopes, aspirations, and possibilities. It conveys the idea of progress and change, emphasizing the importance of shaping a better world for subsequent generations through informed actions and choices.
36) China:
[see source text or glossary: #China#]
37) Birth:
Birth signifies the beginning of life, representing potential, hope, and the continuity of family and cultural legacies. It evokes the responsibilities of nurturing and education to ensure healthy and positive development for new generations.
38) Heart:
Heart symbolizes emotional essence, love, and compassion, often associated with personal connections and empathy. It reflects the feelings that drive interactions and the motivations behind occurrences, depicting the core of human relationships.
39) Anti (Amti):
Anti denotes opposition to certain ideologies or practices, reflecting an active stance against perceived threats. It symbolizes resistance, often fostering collective movements aimed at challenging injustices and asserting rights.
40) Consciousness:
Consciousness refers to the state of awareness, understanding, and perception about oneself and the world. It is influenced by experiences and knowledge, guiding decisions, beliefs, and interactions, shaping individual and societal identity.
41) Communication (Communicating, Communicate, Communicated):
Communicating signifies the process of conveying information, emotions, and thoughts between individuals. It serves as a fundamental aspect of human interactions, fostering understanding and connection.
42) Transmission:
Transmission denotes the passing of knowledge, values, and culture across generations. It is crucial for the continuity of identity and heritage, ensuring that lessons and traditions are preserved and evolve over time.
43) Destruction:
Destruction signifies the act of causing damage or ruin, often disrupting the natural or social order. It evokes the consequences of violence, conflict, or neglect, highlighting the importance of preservation and respect for life and community.
44) Materialism (Materialist):
Materialist represents a focus on physical possessions and economic status, often overshadowing spiritual and emotional dimensions of existence. It challenges holistic perspectives by prioritizing tangible over intangible values.
45) Instruction:
Instruction refers to the process of imparting knowledge or information. It is a critical element of education, emphasizing the importance of teaching and learning for both individual growth and societal advancement.
46) Revolution:
Revolution embodies a significant change, often associated with radical transformation in political or social structures. It reflects collective action aimed at overturning existing systems to establish new paradigms, symbolizing the struggle for rights and freedom.
47) Ignorance (Ignorant):
Ignorance represents a lack of knowledge or awareness, often leading to misconceptions and unexamined beliefs. It can limit personal growth and societal understanding, highlighting the importance of education and information in shaping consciousness.
48) External:
External refers to influences or factors originating from outside an individual or community, impacting perceptions and behaviors. It underscores the dynamics of interaction between personal experiences and broader societal forces.
49) Identity:
Identity encompasses the characteristics, values, and beliefs that define an individual or group. It is shaped by interactions, experiences, and social contexts, influencing how one is perceived and how one navigates the world.
50) Machine:
Machine symbolizes the mechanization and abstraction of human processes and interactions, often contrasting with organic representations of life. It evokes concerns about depersonalization and the effects of modernity on individual relationships.
51) Priest:
Priest signifies the religious authority figure within a faith community, representing spiritual guidance, instruction, and the transmission of beliefs. Their role emphasizes the importance of faith in navigating moral and ethical questions.
52) Desire:
Desire reflects the emotional longing for something, often driving human behavior and aspirations. It can motivate actions and decisions, shaping relationships and influencing personal and collective experiences.
53) Judge:
Judge denotes the act of evaluating, assessing, or making determinations based on criteria or standards. It reflects the moral or ethical dimensions of decision-making, highlighting the complexities of discernment in social contexts.
54) Truth:
Truth symbolizes the concept of reality, belief, or values accepted as genuine or accurate. It underpins the quest for knowledge and the pursuit of understanding, serving as a foundation for meaning and integrity in personal and social relationships.
55) Peace:
Peace embodies a state of tranquility, harmony, and absence of conflict, characterized by mutual respect and understanding. It signifies the ideal condition for personal well-being and social cohesion, essential for human flourishing.
56) Logic (Logical):
Logic represents a system of reasoning and principles that guide thought processes and judgments. It plays a central role in decision-making and problem-solving, influencing how individuals interpret their experiences.
57) Limit (Limiting, Limited):
Limit signifies the boundaries or constraints within which individuals operate. It reflects both the physical and psychological constraints affecting freedom, impacting the pursuit of personal goals and aspirations.
58) Food:
Food represents the sustenance necessary for life and is often emblematic of culture, identity, and social bonding. It connects individuals to their roots and traditions, signifying care and nurturing within family and community.
59) Soul:
Soul represents the spiritual essence of an individual, often linked to emotions, identity, and moral compass. It evokes concepts of depth, connection, and the transcendence of human experience beyond the physical realm.
60) Pari:
[see source text or glossary: #Pari#]
61) Hour:
Hour signifies the unit of time, representing the temporal experience of life. It reflects the fleeting nature of existence and the pressures of daily routines, impacting how individuals perceive their engagement with the world.
62) Book:
Book symbolizes knowledge, education, and communication. It represents the transmission of ideas, wisdom, and culture across generations, serving as a tool for personal and societal growth.
63) Mind:
Mind denotes the cognitive faculties of perception, reasoning, and consciousness. It reflects the complex processes involved in understanding reality and influences relationships, beliefs, and decision-making.
64) Hope:
Hope embodies the optimistic expectation for a better future. It inspires individuals to persevere through challenges and uncertainties, reinforcing resilience and the ambition to pursue meaningful possibilities.
65) Possession:
Possession signifies ownership and control over material goods or resources. It evokes themes of security, wealth, and social status, often influencing power dynamics and individual relationships.
66) Discipline:
Discipline reflects the practice of training and self-control, guiding behavior and actions towards achieving specific goals. It embodies the balance between freedom and responsibility, crucial for personal growth and societal engagement.
67) Happiness:
Happiness symbolizes a state of well-being, joy, and fulfillment. It encompasses various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and personal satisfaction, influencing overall quality of existence.
68) Dimension:
Dimension denotes a measurable aspect or element of a phenomenon. In this context, it reflects the complex interplay between individual experiences, societal structures, and the broader cultural landscape.
69) Isolation:
Isolation signifies separation or detachment from social groups or context. It reflects the emotional challenges individuals face and can impact personal well-being, relationships, and community cohesion.
70) Interior:
Interior signifies the inner world of thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. It reflects the complexities of individual consciousness and the intrinsic motivations that guide behavior and relationships.
71) Extreme:
Extreme denotes the outer limits or boundaries of an experience or phenomenon. It reflects the intensity of feelings, actions, or situations, shaping perceptions and responses in personal and social contexts.
72) Violent:
Violent describes actions or expressions marked by aggression or force. It evokes confrontational dynamics within social relations, often associated with conflict and political struggle.
73) Wealth:
Wealth symbolizes the accumulation of valuable resources or assets. It influences power dynamics, socio-economic status, and the quality of life, shaping societal structures and individual lives.
74) Danger:
Danger reflects the potential for harm or threat within a given context. It signifies the need for caution and awareness when navigating complex environments or relationships.
75) Health:
Health symbolizes the state of physical and mental well-being. It reflects the importance of care, balance, and prevention in maintaining personal vitality within the context of family, work, and society.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 205]