Rational Choice theory and prison chaplaincy: the chaplain's dilemma.

Area of Science:

• Sociology of Religion
• Rational Choice Theory
• Religious Economics

Background:

• Debate on Rational Choice Theory's applicability to religion.
• Polarized views: complete denial vs. sole hope for progress.
• Focus on state regulation's impact on religious vitality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the proposition that religious vitality increases with reduced state regulation.
• To test this proposition using prison chaplaincy data from the UK and USA.
• To explore the role of an established church in mediating state-church relations.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of prison chaplaincy in the UK and USA.
• Qualitative assessment of religious activity levels and state regulation.
• Examination of the Church of England's role as a 'broker'.

Main Results:

• Higher religious vitality, particularly for minority faiths, in UK prisons compared to US prisons.
• The Church of England's established status facilitates religious activity by acting as a state-minority faith intermediary.
• US prisons offer more equal opportunities but result in lower overall religious activity.

Conclusions:

• State regulation significantly impacts religious vitality within prisons.
• An established church can foster religious activity for minority groups through a brokerage function.
• The concept of a 'free market' for religion is not applicable in the regulated prison environment.