Case study 5:  A Religious Cult

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This extract is taken from a discussion of the religious sect, Aum, which became more widely known because of the gas attacks they masterminded on the Japanese subways. This extract is based on a particular television documentary on the Aum and examines issues of representation as well as exploring insights into this strange religious movement. This extract is of particular relevance to Chapters 15 (on belief and religion) and 12 (on the mass media).

Questions

1    Summarise in no more than 100 words the approach taking by Mori towards the Aum.

2    What are the differences in methodological approach between sociologists and documentary makers such as the Aum? In what ways could you claim that the sociological approach is superior?

3    Express in your own words the 'riddle' that Mori set out to pose in the making of this documentary.

4    Assess the ability of documentaries such as Mori's to offer insights into questions of sociological importance.

5    What would you suggest as the potential source(s) of the power of Ashara over the followers of Aum. How might a sociologist analyse this power?

6    In the aftermath of the September 11 attack on the World Trade Centre, do the activities of the Aum suggest a global network of terror or a localised response to Japanese situation? Give reasons for your response.

7    What does the story of the Aum tell us about the nature of religion in contemporary societies? Use concepts drawn from the sociology of religion in your answer.

8    To what extent does the media construct a pre-conceived image of the world rather than present us with reality. Use material from the case study to support your argument.

Source: Gardner, R. A. (2001) 'Aum and the Media: lost in the cosmos and the need to know' in Kisala, R. J. and M. R. Mullins Religion and Social Crisis in Japan,
Basingstoke, Palgrave, pages 141-148.