Questioning religious monopolies and free markets: The role of the state, the church(es), and secular agents in the management of religion in Argentina

Abstract

This paper reviews the variety of (sometimes contradictory) processes affecting religion in Argentina today. It questions the idea that a true Catholic monopoly existed in the past, and suggests that the current advancement of religious diversity in the country does not necessarily entail increasing pluralism (since, following James Beckford, this would mean the positive appreciation of this diversity) but can, on the contrary, cause increased social resistance to new religious practices and ideas. A realistic appraisal of religious pluralism should take into account the degree of social as well as governmental regulation of religion. Therefore, this paper emphasizes the expanding role of different secular agents in the control of religious ideas and practices.