RELIGIOUS MARKET SHARE AND MORMON CHURCH ACTIVITY

A theory of religious activity based on principles of supply-side econ omics has generated considerable controversy in the sociology of relig ion. This theory posits that religious Pluralism increases rates of re ligious activity by promoting competition between churches. This paper tests ''supply-side theory'' with data describing US Mormons. Results uncover patterns in Mormon church activity that refute the theory. Th e paper outlines several characteristics of Mormonism that explain its deviance from the theorized outcome, and suggests a scope condition f or supply-side theory.