The Dynamics Of Cognitive Dissonance In The Process Of Religious Conversion
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33751/jhss.v10i1.98Keywords:
pragmatic conversion, cognitive dissonance, interfaith marriageAbstract
In the sociological landscape where religion is often reduced to merely an administrative instrument for the legality of marriage, the phenomenon of religious conversion frequently loses its spiritual essence. This study explores the complex psychological dynamics involved in pragmatic conversion, a form of religious conversion in which the shift in belief occurs not due to a transcendental calling, but rather because of situational pressures and rational calculations. Using a qualitative case study approach on a subject who experienced a cycle of conversion (from Islam to Christianity) and re-conversion (returning to Islam), this research examines the individual’s inner turmoil through the lens of Leon Festinger’s Cognitive Dissonance Theory. The findings reveal that religious uniformity as a prerequisite for marriage often creates a condition of “compliance without acceptance.” The subject demonstrates high levels of orthopraxic behavior such as diligently attending church services yet simultaneously experiences a profound conflict with their essential identity, which remains attached to their previous creed, ultimately triggering a loss of inner peace. Interestingly, this analysis highlights that when the external buffering variable (marriage) collapses due to conflict, the justification for maintaining such dissonance also disappears. The decision to return to the original religion, therefore, is not merely an inconsistency of attitude, but rather a mechanism for restoring mental homeostasis and a rational effort to reduce the psychological suffering caused by living in theological pretense.
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