On Sōka Gakkai and Kōmeitō: A Critical Reflection Around Certain Sociological Studies

Vinicio Busacchi

First

Investigation

2019-01-01

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Abstract

The problem of epistemological and methodological status and the function of sociology is a centuries-old, complex theme of interest. Sociological studies on the religious international movement Sōka Gakkai (SG) and the related Kōmeitō political party mirror the complexity of this problem. Developing a comprehensive survey on critical literature regarding SG and Kōmeitō offers a parallel, and equally interesting, thematisation of sociology’s epistemological-procedural problems. By offering concrete examples of analysis and problematisation, this paper aims to underline the importance of articulate sociological investigation, including finalised theoretical research that applies doctrinal and philosophical elements to the procedure.