The Effects of Theology on Church Attendance Pubblico

Holley, Kevin (Spring 2019)

Permanent URL: https://etd.library.emory.edu/concern/etds/mp48sd95h?locale=it
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Abstract

This thesis seeks to understand why individuals decide to attend particular churches,

dividing individuals by theology and observing how individuals with different theology respond

to certain characteristics of churches. Using Azzi & Ehrenberg’s utility theory of religiosity and

Iannaccone’s club theory of religion as lenses, this paper analyzes data from a sample of

churches in the United States to determine what factors lead to church attendance. This study has

found that liberal churchgoers fit the utility theory of religiosity best, while conservative

churches fit the club theory of religion best. Most factors affect church attendance in the same

direction across theologies. Long-tenured pastors are good for attendance, while long services

are bad for attendance. This thesis hopes to open a new interest within the field of economic

study of religion in how theology affects individuals’ decisions.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................1

DATA AND METHODOLOGY...........................................................................................................4

RESULTS..........................................................................................................................................8

ROBUSTNESS................................................................................................................................15

LIMITATIONS................................................................................................................................19

CONCLUSIONS..............................................................................................................................20

REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................22

APPENDIX.....................................................................................................................................23

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