JWD
>>I was in the Philippines some time ago. The big religion there is a
>>group called `Iglesia Ni Cristo`(Literally Church of Christ) … IT`S
>>EVERYWHERE … that group`s teachings share many of the
>>distinctives of the WT teachings … For the most part, however, it has
>>remained a local religion. On the other hand the Watchtower has
>>reached around the world. Why the difference?
I somewhat agree with your thesis, that part of the explanation of the
Watchtower's worldwide acceptance is due to its origin in the US.
However, I think that is only part of the reason for its popularity. As
you know, the religion's growth began in the early 1900s when the
allure of Western culture wasn't nearly what it is now. Imo, the appeal
of the Bible Student's religion can be traced to something of a similar
sort that was common within Jewish culture -- they tended to keep a
written record of everything and carefully revised it. Similarly,
Russell, a prolific writer, was able to record his ideas and continually
revise them as circumstances required. (The Judge became a master at
the technique, expunging from the written history those features he
deemed unappealing.) Anyway, Russell's simple message translated
well into other cultures, particularly those in western Europe
(including Great Britain's far-flung colonies) and across national and
social boundaries. Having the advantage of written theologies allowed
it to be passed along to others (family members, work mates,
neighbors) making the work of missionaries easier.
You suggest that it's basically a white man's religion and point
to a century's long absence of non-White representation on the
governing body. Both valid points. Another feature that many find
attractive is that the organization's structure and form mimics both the
Catholic Church (I believe this has been commented on before) and
corporate America -- why else are business suits given so much attention, facial
hair being discouraged in men, briefcases regularly used both in public
settings (field service) and at 'company meetings", with a full
complement of company literature. A man who has accomplished very
little in academia or in a professional environment can become "a
somebody" if he applies himself (reaches out), and a woman who
marries such a man adds to her prestige. Certainly a pathetic
situation, but we all know it's true.
You asked:
For being God`s one true org. on earth it certainly doesn`t represent
an even cross section of the world population. Where are all the bros.
in China? Or Bangledesh? ,etc. Why doesn`t the GB include bros.
from Africa? Or Asia? Or South America for that matter?
Actually, I think Pathofthorns was on to something. Some
gave his idea a racist slant but I didn't see it that way. He said:
At the risk of generalizing too much, I find "white people" will think
more with logic. Other cultures and races often more with their hearts
and emotions.
I could be wrong, but the Watchtower has made very little inroads into
the Native American culture and other peoples who's way of life tends
to be earth oriented (I forget the proper term for it). With all of the
numbers inherent in the religion's concepts (144,000; three and one-
half weeks; two days; etc.) and Fred's endless indulgences into the
prophets, ending with his types and anti-types… it's definitely unlike
the more emotional kinds of religion (Pentecostal, etc.) where
members are allowed to "feel."
While Pathofthorns goes on to say that "The religion plays upon the
emotions and it will be those who don't ever stop and THINK
LOGICALLY and ask themselves DOES THIS MAKE SENSE? that
remain" -- on this point I disagree. While it does play on the emotions -
to the extent that people usually want to live without pain, the fear of
death, the end of all kinds of suffering, hoping to live forever in a
paradise-like setting -- for the most part, the JW religion is one that is
more likely to appeal to logic and reason than emotion. imho.
peace,
todd