Globalisation and Religion

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The affects of globalisation on religion

Beyer - claimed that globalisation has had three very different impacts on religion:

  • Marginalisation - Religion has been pushed out of politics and public life into the private sphere
  • Particularism - reigion has been used by groups who feel threatened by globalisation they use it to express a sense of identity through a mix of fundamentalism and nationalism. 
  • Universalism - globalisation can result in the emergence of an understanding of common values between religions.
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The breakdown of national boundaries

In the past religion had strong links with the state.

National identity and religious identity are now less closely linked

Nanda - worshipping Hindu Gods is now closely linked to nationalism in India, Religious belief is actually growing in India despite of globalisation.

Religious identity is becoming more globalised - people are exposed to a variety of religions and tchnology alllows believers to be part of international religious communities.

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Religion as a reaction to poverty and exclusion

Penetecostalism has grown very quickly around the world, especially in the poorest parts of the Latin America, Africa and Asia. 

Martin - pentecostalism mainly succeeds because it is designed to make its members feel empowered and important.

Pentecostalism is chosen by it members , so they have a stronger sense of commitment and religious identity.

It values piety, self discipline ans loyalty to the nuclear family which can all be acheived without economic capital. 

It is not hierarchical so all members have equal status and it can change and adapt to local communities.

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Rethinking secularisation

It is clear the Europe is highly secularised but religious belief is growing in the rest of the world

The USA is highly religious.

Berger - what we have seen is not secularisation but extreme pluralisation

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Changes to how religion works

Religious groups often make use pf global communications networks to recruit more members. This can often be contradictory as thier values may clash with those of the globalised world but they still use modern technology.

Lyon - religion has relocated to the sphere of consumption. Religion has become a consumer product 

A globally connected society has meant that their is now more opportunities to reduce conflicts through interfaith dialogue.

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Rising fundamentalism

Giddens - globalisation creates insecurity and doubt, due to its often conflicting and cnfusing messages. Fundamentalism in contrast offers a simple and reliable world view.

Fundametalism is the literal interpretation of the sacred text and gives a srtict set of rules to live by. Fundamentalist groups fervently follow their beliefs.

The New Christian Right argues that American society is in a state of decline and a moral crisis. They argue that this is caused by liberal reforms such as, easy divorce, legalised arbortion and gay rights etc. 

The New Christian Right oppose the teaching of evolution in schools because it disagrees with the fundamentalist interpretation of the bible. 

However, the New Christian Right promote their ideas through mass communications such as the media and TV, which has been developed as a result of modern society and globalisation.

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