In which type of organization is membership commonly associated with birth?

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Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The correct answer is that membership is commonly associated with birth in an ecclesia. An ecclesia is a large, universal religious organization that claims to encompass all members of a society, typically including anyone born into the culture or society where that religion dominates. This contrasts with other types of organizations where membership may be more voluntary or based on personal choice rather than birth.

In terms of sociological structure, an ecclesia often becomes the official or state religion and is integrated into the governmental framework of society. As a result, individuals are often considered members simply by being born into a society that recognizes that religion, leading to the understanding that their membership is linked to their place of birth rather than a personal decision to join.

The other types of organizations mentioned have different membership dynamics. For instance, a cult typically requires participation that is based on specific beliefs or practices chosen by individuals; a church may open its doors to anyone but often emphasizes voluntary membership; and a sect usually represents a smaller, more exclusive group that breaks away from a larger religious organization, often requiring a conscious choice to join.