Abstract

Reformism is the historical practice of reinventing the structure of society. Reformism means implementing new ideas confl icting with traditional social practices of which Solon’s reforms in ancient Greece are among the oldest and most signifi cant examples. A proactive attitude towards tradition was present in the 16th century Reformation. Th is is also a good example of social constructivism. The main idea was to create a new type of society. The functioning of society is regulated according to ideas (of individual intellect). This is the intellectualist and centralist aspect of reformism. The Reformation functioned as a permanent obstacle to papal expansionism. It also meant a new phase in the evolution of Catholicism—an ongoing interaction with Protestant movements. The Counterreformation had a paralyzing eff ect on Catholicism, preventing modernization by rejecting any changes that might resemble those invented by Protestants. Ultimately Catholicism did not abandon the ideal of unity. Schism, recognized as evil, demands repair. Th us, the anticipation of better times, when all would convert or return to the Mother Church — fi rst the Jews, and later all the historical off shoots of Christianity.