Brought to Light by Kenney, J. Scott -- Read -- Imperial Library of Trantor

Index

Cover Page Title Page Copyright Contents Preface Acknowledgements 1 Contemporary Freemasonry: A Neglected Field

Freemasonry: Background and Context Sociological Research on Freemasonry Theoretical Mechanisms: Explaining the Impact of Ritual Method and Approach Characteristics of the Research Sample Organization of This Book

2 Paths To Masonry

Predisposing Factors The Social Interplay between Secrecy and Curiosity Organized/Organizing Encounters Attractive/Attracting Aspects of the Craft Unattractive Factors/Hurdles to Get Over Overcoming the Hurdles Discussion and Conclusion

3 Taking The Degrees

Before the Candidate Arrives at the Lodge Hall Preparing Candidates for the Degrees Initiation: The First Degree Working toward Understanding The Second Degree The Third Degree After the Degrees Are Done How Degrees Were Done Conclusion

4 Social Atmosphere and Member Involvement

Masonic Literature Social Science Literature Findings Conclusion

5 Organizational Factors and Member Involvement

Membership Focus: Getting New Members or Retaining Existing Ones Dues/Fees Structure The Right to Participate in Lodge Activities—and When Issues Surrounding Masonic Offices and Tasks in the Lodge How Lodge Meetings Are Organized and Run Interactions with the Wider Community Conflict and Contentious Dynamics Relationship with the Grand Lodge Relationship with the Shrine Demographic/Generational Issues Conclusion

6 Further Factors In Member Involvement and an Overall Explanatory Framework

Educational Issues The Impact of Members’ Other Commitments and Activities; Thoughts on Gender Moral and Ethical Benefits Motivational Issues Discussion: Analytical Typology

7 Claimed Life Changes Since Becoming a Freemason

Overall Changes (if Any) Claimed Social Changes in Respondents’ Lives Claimed Changes in Respondents’ Character and Abilities Conclusion

8 Contemporary Freemasonry: The Direction Forward?

Notes Glossary Works Cited Index