Description
Book SynopsisIn this book, Julia Berger examines internal meaning-making structures and processes driving NGO behavior, identifying constructs from within a religious tradition that forge new ways of pursuing social change. She evaluates the operation of a distinct rationality, arguing that action is guided not simply by beliefs and values, but also by a combination of elements so intrinsic as to constitute an organizational DNA. These hidden structures and rationalities manifest themselves in new modes of engagement and agency; they help us to see the pivotal role of religion in shaping notions of peace, progress, and modernity. To demonstrate the operation and salience of such a rationality, Berger draws on the example of the worldwide Baha'i community. Emerging in 19th century Iran, the community's theological engagement with questions of justice, the unity of humankind, and the emerging global order, constitute one of the most distinct and compelling, yet least-researched examples of religio
Trade ReviewIn addressing the Baha'i International Community’s engagement with the UN, Julia Berger does so much more. She highlights how the fundamental perspectives of this religious NGO (RNGO) shapes its goals, approaches, methodology, and contributions to wider society. This thought provoking and scholarly study is compelling in encouraging us to drop simplistic presumptions about RNGOs and acknowledge the resources from which they draw in contributing to the work of the UN. * Nazila Ghanea, Director of International Human Rights Law Programmes, University of Oxford, UK *
A thoughtful, earnest, well-researched look at a little-known phenomenon. * Jeffrey Haynes, Emeritus Professor, London Metropolitan University, UK *
Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Discerning Organizational Rationale 2. Forging a Global Polity: The Bahá’í International Community on the World Stage 3. Rationale and Engagement: The United Nations through a New Lens (1945-1970) 4. A Question of Authority: Articulating and Actuating the Rationale (1970-1986) 5. Beyond Peace: The Greater Trajectory of Social Development (1986-2008) 6. Rationale and Coherence: Seeking Alignment Between Means and Ends (2008-2015) 7. A Counter-Rationality: Expanded Notions of Religious Polity in the Modern World Index Bibliography
