Making Sense of the Nonsensical, Essay Example

Question 1-Conformity

Conformity refers to the tendency of matching beliefs, and attitudes to the norms of the group. In the case of Jonestown, the Reverend had established some norms for guiding the interaction of his congregation; thus, he had managed to acquire unconscious influence over them. It took Jim Jones twenty years to win over his followers, owing to his preaching strategy that was focused on integration and racial unity. Conformity ascribes to groupthink, manifested in self-deception and members conform to some ethics and values, which shun realistic occurrence of other actions. In the case, the followers of Jim Jones find the jobs for the poor, besides feeding them. While this is a noble course, it is a strategy to cover up his intended ill actions.  His strategy enabled him to increase members, while insisting on their dedication. His approach enables him to meet new congregations, and any form of unwillingness to refuse to conform leads to social rejection.

Question 2-Marx

According to the theory of social conflict, people in power use it to exploit the less fortunate in the society. In the case of Jones, he ensures he has become a personal object towards the obedience and devotion of his followers. Consequently, he uses their devotion to achieve political power and influence. The theory argues that, the interaction of the group allows democratic control and collective ownership. The strong one, being Jones, is exploiting the poor, his followers. In the temple, he demands undivided loyalty, and enforces a tax regime. He ensures the members fears to own property or show any form of economic interest. He does this by delivering sermons on massive world destruction, while maintaining that only his followers will survive. This gives him an upper hand to continue exploiting them without them realizing.