A Field Study Update on Organizational Satanism and Setianism in the United States

Bibliographic Data

ID5090571
AuthorsSteven Foertsch (0000-0002-1957-1300, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA, corresponding author)
Year2022
Volume64
Issue4
Pages981-996
Publication date2022-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueReview of Religious Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2211-4866 • E-ISSN: 0034-673X
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/s13644-022-00513-1
OpenAlexW4309701592
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited21

Background With recent attention to the organizational dynamics of contemporary Satanism, updated information on Satanic and Setian organizations is imperative for the field. Purpose The purpose of this research note is to update the literature surrounding Satanism and Setianism with new organizational and administrative information, which will help scholars studying these groups in developing new theoretical frameworks and interpretations. Methods A snowball sample interview, participant observation, and ethnographic study was conducted. In person field work was done primarily in Austin, TX, and New York, NY, where occult bookstores, wicca stores, online group pages/forums, Satanic gatherings, and goth clothing shops were frequented for a portrayal of "lived Satanism." Results Findings elaborate on the authority structures of five Satanic and Setian organizations, and a long considered defunct Satanic group called the Church of Satanic Brotherhood is uncovered. Participants also elaborate on the previous schisms within the Satanic niche. Conclusions and Implications Field note recommendations are given to future researchers working in Satanic studies. The organizational findings inform future research and theoretical innovations, including religious organization ecology (ROE) theory

Ethnography · Field (mathematics) · Participant observation · Political science · Public relations · Social science · Sociology · Anthropology · Religion and Society Interactions · Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology · Sexuality, Behavior, and Technology

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