(Soc.)Nature of religion

Zachary C.

Sociology
Professor G.
September 14

CT 2
Chapter 3, Question 2

Ways religion divides:

Alienation:
Religion is naturally divisive since it often creates two groups of people: us and them. Once this occurs, people who where once familiar now become alien. People now exist within a new social network. The social ties before are no longer seen as important. In certain religions, it is a main priority of the group to proselytize. Religon can alienate our friends by aggressively trying to change their worldview to match ours. Even tough this is often attempt to "save a person's soul," it can cause rifts between families and friends. Where once a commonality of beliefs existed, the perceptions of reality are now far from each other. Many religions also tries to insulate those within their groups from outside influences, creating a special club cattering to member's need for acceptance and familiarity. Those in the group have made themselves superior to others.
Inflexibility:
Although division between religious groups in the USA may seem great, it is much less than those divisions in other countries. There are much fewer attacks by one group against another. Religious groups realize that they have a great responsibility in supporting and nurturing a largely secular society. It would be unwise for them to show a bad face to the public by showing any animosity towards others.
The nature of religious confrontation in the USA has moved from aggression to apologetics, where competent scholars (apologists) of the individual religions verbally spar in the litarary or vocal realm. This is a parallel to the progress the USA has made intellectually and scientifically. Unlike in other countries, which try to force fundamentalism, the USA realizes that creative thought can be applied to religious concepts. Apologists believe their religions to be true, and will not compromise on their beliefs, but are willing to take the time to understand another group's beliefs, and try to explain their own beliefs to others. Yet for all the communication, only three results typically happen: denial, acceptance or confusion.Rarely does a person accomodate an aspect of another religion while still maintaining that person's original faith. Often because it is impossible to do so. Instead, they convert to that other religion and distain the religion of their past, finding it untasteful and inferior. In educated countries, many people have given up any attempts at religious certainty.
In other countries, the idea of religious acceptance is a much harder issue to resolve. As an example, the conflict between Catholics and Protestants within Ireland has reached a point of ingrained hostility. Just as the wars between communists and capatalists seemed unending, so does this religious parallel. Fortunately, time often fades predjudices. There is hope for many religions to eventually coincide and work together.
Certain religions have ideologies which are completely inflexible. In Christianity, Christ is the only way to heaven. In Islam, Christ is merely a wise man. The Koran is the only way to heaven. This is an unreconcilable issue for both religions. The issue is more complicated, but simply stated: some religions can not evolve or mutate while remaining true to its core beliefs. To assimilate another religion would dilute that religion, creating an altogether seperate belief system.
Ways religion unites:
Inclusion:
In a culture devoid of secular fulfillment, religion provides the main source of personal satisfaction within many people's lives. The churches that are built help create a social network. Friendships and maritial relationships are formed as a result of this setting. A diverse community finds a common denominator in which to built their social network. In an overly competitive capitalistic country, the unconditional love of other people is a great psychological healer.
The weekly meetings of many religions provides a basis for social involvement. When a community desires to help repair the homes of the poor, there is no problem contacting the community. The problem is presented to the congregation. Participation and financial support (an offering) is asked for, then the group goes out and does what is needed.
Religion also provides a moral compass. Any uncertainty can be addressed. There is typically a spiritual leader, or a support group to rely on. Unlike many of those who live without religious involvement, people are not singular beings in a large uncaring world. Life can be explained and purpose given. In a country which values material weath, the concept of spiritual wealth over material posession provides solace for those who are not wealthy, and fulfillment for those unsatisfied with the wealth they have.
How to create unity without conversion or sacrifices
Often times leaders of different denominations realize that their differences must be set aside for the greater good. This can be seen during war time, when whole cultures unify towards a common threat. The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Yet this is a temporary alliance, a means to an end, not true unity at all.
There are religions which will never peacefully coincide with other religions and beliefs. A group who's fundamental beliefs are diametrically opposed to basic human rights can not merge with a global society based on these very concepts. Insular and militant particularistic religions, by their vary natures, will have the hardest time integrating into a peaceful global society.
For many religions, such as Buddhism, unity is created by glossing over the unreconcilable differences. Singularities are subdued, Christ becomes a kind figure. Each group finds peace in its own way. Religions which have a common ground, such as human rights, can utilize this as a bridge between their conflicting beliefs. If there is a limit to aggressive proselytising among the different religious groups, then a trust can be formed. This trust is a basis for true unity. Since many religions are based on the desire for contentment and happiness, it is no wonder that many religious leaders meet to solve global problems.
Consideration is a concept which is very evident among those within a particular religious group. Yet consideration is not shown to those outside of many religious groups. An individual's perception of reality is not a constant. Adulthood, parenthood, traumatic events, all these things affect a person's view of reality.This is similar to filters that can be added to a camera. Some religions are like polarizers; they help clarify reality. Other religions are like color or starburst filters; reality has changed into something completely different, however pretty it may seem. When religious values become central to a person's belief system, the world is seen much differently. For unity to succeed, societies must come to realize that what they believe is reality is merely a perception of reality. The world may be completely different than we think. Just as the world before Kepler thought the universe to revolve around the earth, so even now we must be aware that the world may not be the way we think it is.
A greater global society may form out of the inclusion of religions which benefit the goals of that society. The religions of the world which seek to control and manipulate the weak can not exist in this context. Hateful tendencies and egocentric belief systems are detrimental to the creation of a greater society, and will continue to undermind the efforts of those who strive to create a just and unbiased world.