Date Approved
2006
Degree Type
Open Access Senior Honors Thesis
Department or School
History and Philosophy
Abstract
The Mormon Church has attracted many new members to its religion since its inception and has grown into a world religion. However, the Shakers only have a few remaining members, and the Oneida Perfectionists have none. By examining the founding figures’ personality traits, each community’s sexual attitudes and key rituals, and especially their recruitment methods, I will demonstrate why the Mormons have attracted so many more followers than the other two utopian communities, and why people have found the attitudes and rituals of the Mormon Church to be more attractive. In other words, I will show why the Mormons were much more successful at recruiting new members.
Recommended Citation
Kirkbride, Robin, "Utopian religions in America: The Shakers, the Oneida Perfectionists and the Mormons, an issue of survival" (2006). Senior Honors Theses and Projects. 55.
https://commons.emich.edu/honors/55