The Sociology of Mysticism
Published in isa.e-Forum (International Sociological Association), 2017
Abstract
This paper calls on sociologists to revisit the “mysticism” dimension in Troeltsch’s church–sect–mysticism framework. It argues that mystical experience is ubiquitous and socially consequential, outlines reasons for sociological neglect, proposes ways to operationalize and study mystical experience, and provides a forward-looking blueprint for research—while cautioning against replacing institutional parochialism with mystocentrism.
Key Points
- Identifies a long-standing disciplinary bias toward institutions at the expense of experience.
- Makes a case for studying mystical experience as sociologically significant and empirically tractable.
- Offers guidance on operationalization and research design.
- Includes a methodological warning: don’t build a new reductionism around mysticism.
Recommended citation: Sosteric, Mike. (2017). “The Sociology of Mysticism.” *isa.e-Forum* (International Sociological Association).
Download Paper