The statement emphasizes how the Society of Jesus, often referred to as the Jesuits, was deliberately structured along military lines by its founder, Ignatius Loyola. This means that Loyola designed the organization with principles and practices commonly found in military settings, such as strict hierarchy, disciplined obedience, and strategic objectives.
When we delve deeper into this quote, it reveals a fascinating aspect of religious institutions and their ability to adapt traditional organizational models to suit their goals. By modeling the Jesuits after a military structure, Loyola aimed to instill a sense of order, discipline, and purpose among its members. This approach was instrumental in the Society's rapid expansion and influence throughout Europe and beyond. The use of military-like principles allowed for rigorous training and indoctrination of members, ensuring their loyalty and commitment to the organization’s mission. Additionally, this model facilitated effective administration and strategic planning, enabling the Jesuits to achieve considerable success in education, missionary work, and other fields.
Robert Shea is an author best known for his collaborative works with August Derleth on the Cthulhu Mythos and for his solo novels like "The Hacker and the Ants." In this particular quote, he highlights a significant historical aspect of religious organizations that illustrates how secular organizational strategies can be successfully applied to spiritual institutions.
