Why are some forms of fandom more acceptable than others? (Part II)

Some forms of fandom are seen as more acceptable because the fruits of the fandom are evident; the fruits are beneficial to the rest of society. I believe this is one of the greatest reasons religious fandom was supported for so long, and to some extent still is supported today. The church in the early days of the United States was crucial in developing schools, hospitals, mental institutions, and taking care of the poor. The church took care of some key needs society had. Their practices might have seemed a little odd to those who weren't part of the Christian affinity group, but people on the outside could say, "well, those differences are okay because they are taking care of the nice widow down the street." Unfortunately, it has become so much easier to renounce Christian fandom because we are steadily taking care of less of the practical needs in society. Political fandom is also on the decline. At one time it was okay to be seen as a fan of a political party because there was a general belief the political bodies were doing something beneficial for society. This is less the case now. People are generally apathetic when it comes to politics because of all the negative actions the government has taken that have actually hurt society. All of this to say, when fandom (or even a fan group) is contributing to the basic needs of society, it is seen as acceptable. I might still think of more reasons and blog about them.