Theos-Talk Archives (April 1996 Message tl01076)

If we look at the historical rise and fall of membership of Theosophical
Society and all other organizations in the Theosophical Movement, it is
apparent that starting from a few members in 1875, the membership grew
for several decades  and then started declining.

The current status seems to be that while the
organizations exist, the membership count appears to be lowest in the
recent decades and may be declining (if anyone has facts to show
otherwise please provide statistics.) It also appears that Theosophical
Society (Adyar) is the only one which has largest membership and has
lodges in a large number of countries around the world.

Everyone has their own theory and opinion why the membership and
popularity of TS Organizations did not keep pace with the increased
interest in the New Age stuff.

At the situation stands, it looks to me that if the present
trends continue we may see further decline in the membership in the next
decade. It is easy in hindsight to put the real or perceived blame on one or
more things or one or more persons, one or more policies etc.

After all it the members who are most important assets to any organization.
Not the bank accounts, buildings, real estate assets. The latter can help.

The question that arises in my mind is what we as individuals can do
to further Theosophy so that it can benefit more and more of the masses?
With the technological progress it is possible to reach mass audience
more easily and quickly than ever before.

Any ideas?

	......doss