Factors Influencing Hostility towards Controversial Religious Groups

Abstract

The results of a research project conducted by questionnaire among a representative sample of 1041 Polish people over 15 years of age indicate that hostility towards controversial religious groups (Jehovah's Witnesses, Hare Krishnas and Satanists) is related to certain elements of their image (as intolerant, dishonest, unfriendly or creating a threat to society). Respondents spontaneously used the word “sect” in relation to the group (most frequently in the case of Satanists); they relied on the teaching of the Church for information. Their hostility was also linked to religious authoritarianism. Personal acquaintance with members of these religious groups, and reference to information via the media, reduced this hostility, but only in case of Hare Krishnas.

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