Virtual space and social media studies

Virtual space and social media studies

A Critical Analysis of the Impact of New Age Spirituality and Mysticism on Youth Culture

Document Type : Original Article

Author
PhD in Business Administration,. Tehran, Iran. Email: h.mehri40@gmail.com
Abstract
The theories of globalization and the global village, underpinned by the digital infrastructure, have induced profound and substantive transformations at both micro and macro levels, influencing societal cultures and the lives of the world's youth. The transition from static, traditional societies to dynamic, modern ones has accelerated, and religious authorities' conventional methods of religious proselytization have undergone significant changes. Amidst the turbulence of modern society, we have witnessed the emergence of mystical and spiritual movements that have rapidly transcended national boundaries, leveraging the power of digital platforms to infiltrate cultures and shape identities.
A substantial portion of today's youth have become disengaged from traditional religious indoctrination and are instead influenced by the cultural and spiritual teachings disseminated through digital spaces. The digital realm has facilitated unprecedented opportunities for connection and cultural penetration, and if not managed effectively, it poses significant challenges and threats to the younger generation.
This research aims to critically analyze the impact of new-age spirituality and mysticism on youth culture within the digital context. Employing a qualitative, library-based, and analytical-descriptive methodology, this study reveals that the digital space offers opportunities for new-age spiritual and mystical movements to flourish while simultaneously presenting associated threats. The combined effects of these positive and negative influences on youth and national cultures have been subjected to a critical analysis. The study concludes by proposing practical recommendations centred around three key areas: strengthening youth culture, safeguarding national identity, and managing mystical and spiritual movements, which are crucial in addressing the issues raised.
Keywords

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Volume 1, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
Autumn 2024
Pages 147-181

  • Receive Date 05 April 2024
  • Revise Date 28 April 2024
  • Accept Date 11 May 2024
  • First Publish Date 21 May 2024
  • Publish Date 21 May 2024