Jade Houghton- RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY, SOCIAL JUSTICE, & GLOBAL RISE IN FAITHS

Article: SOME IMPLICATIONS FOR MONOTHEISM by Rita M. Gross explores the implications of globalisation and religious diversity within society. As multiculturalism engulfs our society it has become apparent that religions of the world become closer together and more apparent amongst every social group. Gross’ article exposes the weaknesses behind religious diversity and the xenophobia and ethnocentrism that come with it. I find it particularly interesting the way in which she explores monotheistic religions struggling to resolve religious diversity in this day and age.

IMPLICATIONS FOR MONOTHEISM addresses ‘religious chauvinism’ and the concept of ‘our’ religion to be the one and only. I believe this is simply human nature to place personal beliefs at the forefront and therefore how can we change the way in which we are ‘wired’ to think and behave?

AS explored in the article religion is inextricably linked with culture. All of us are born into certain cultures and then of course are born into religion. We inherit religious and cultural traits and both of these aspects influence the ways in which we view the rest of society.

Acknowledging Gross’ historical account of the ancient Israelite religion to early Judaism it becomes apparent the ways in which why monotheism differs from other religions when dealing with the diversity of religions within society. Through history attitudes are adopted and, as expressed within the article, the beliefs and practices put in place, many years ago, towards one universal deity who was to be accepted and embraced by all was “unquestioned and unquestionable.” These beliefs have simply developed into today’s day and age.

Religious diversity goes beyond simple religious practice and beliefs. It becomes a question of cultural difference and tolerance. As I put forward before human beings are a product of habit and history. However in saying this it is also human nature to be inquisitive learners. Education, I believe is the key to religious diversity as it promotes understanding and acceptance.

Reference: Gross, Rita M. ‘Religious Diversity: Some Implications for Monotheism’. Cross Currents 1999, Vol. 49, Issue 3 http://www.crosscurrents.org/gross.htm

SOCIAL JUSTICE & RELIGION
Jo Ellen Green Kaiser’s WHY SOCIAL JUSTICE NEEDS RELIGION is an enlightening article that immediately expresses some very honest thoughts. The concept that globalisation is really pulling us apart rather than together is definitely a reality. In today’s age it appears that majority do spend more time with technology than they do with friends, family or colleagues. Religion however does play an important role within today’s society. Even though technology and our consumer driven lifestyles are at the forefront, acts of kindness and compassion still manage to creep into our lives it is just a question of which do we value more?
Social justice is a human right, a demand legitimately made by all individuals. Tikkun Olam, the repair of the world, is a concept deriving from Judaism. It expresses that ordinary individuals contribute to social justice and from this a broader community of social justice is formed.

Justice and religion though can have negative impacts when placed together. Fundamentalism has grown immensely in recent years as community groups rally together in order to usurp those who don’t fit in. Fundamentalism promotes community through exclusivity, therefore significantly removing the practice of social justice.

Religion and social justice go hand in hand. It is basic religious beliefs that we act in a just way amongst our community however with fundamentalism religion and social justice can be separated as exclusive communities are created. As expressed within the article: “the first step to justice is to recognise that we are always already connected.”

Reference: Kaiser, Jo E.G Why Social Justice Needs Religion 2007
http://www.zeek.net/712justice/

THE GLOBAL RISE OF FAITH
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada acknowledges its multi-faith society and within this article explores the reasons why faith across the globe is on the rise.

Religion within the 21st century has experienced a revival as it increasingly goes beyond its personal and enclosed spheres and aims to reach a broader social and ‘politicised’ world. Religion is no longer just an important aspect amongst an individual but is a public practice. The domestic faiths have now reached a far broader status and through globalisation individuals are exposed to changing religious views and new practice, which include a more visible declaration of faith.
The Global rise of Faith is not just occurring in one particular part of the world. On every continent changes to religious practice and its popularity are taking place. Due to changing values in society, multiculturalism and discontent with traditional religions, the world religions that have the most rapid growth rate are Islam and Evangelical Protestantism. These religions have experienced a flourish in new adherents who are looking for a faith that is relevant in today’s day and age.
Geography, economy, and politics are no longer main factors into religion and its adherents. As it seems the world is getting smaller with technological advances and migration people are subjected to a broader range of religious practices and beliefs. With these choices faiths are growing across the globe.

Reference: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada international.gc.ca 2008-12-03
http://www.international.gc.ca/cip-pic/features-manchettes/religion/index.aspx?lang=eng