Introduction
Even in the age of secularity and diversity, religion permeates essential aspects of human society, such as law, morality, ethics, and economy. The power of faith can either unite or cause severe divisions. Examples of unifying potential can be found in universal values upheld by the followers of different religions. Religion can inspire powerful calls for addressing the global challenges of the modern era, including economic inequality and the protection of the environment. However, faith can also ignite strong tensions between religious and secular worldviews. In the most extreme cases, religion can be used to justify violence against other people.
Morality and Ethics
Regarding morality and ethics, religion offers divine laws and values associated directly with the deities. These laws can be surprisingly similar in their representation of universal moral values. For instance, monotheistic faiths, such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, have substantial parallels — both the Ten Commandments and Islamic law strictly condemn murder, theft, and adultery (Duties and Law, n.d.). Therefore, the followers of different religions have a common moral ground, which can be used for mitigating the differences.
Furthermore, various religions share a respect for Earth as a cradle of humanity and dominion of our kind. In practice, many Christian organizations are involved in environmentalism, conservation, and education on the subject. Likewise, Qur’an urges Muslims to be attentive and responsive to the needs of the Earth (The Environment, n.d.). Therefore, the belief in the dominant role of humankind is not associated with the wasteful use of the planet’s resources. On the contrary, major religions see humanity as a steward and caretaker of nature.
The divisive aspect of religion regarding morality and ethics can be seen on the subject of war and peace. In particular, major religions contain theories crafted for justifying wars (War and Peace). For example, Christianity has a just war theory, and Islam has a concept of jihad, which can be used as a convenient excuse for violence. Whereas peace is preferable from the moral foundations of religion, war can be perceived by authorities as a political necessity. Consequently, religion may be used for sowing hatred and increase war support.
Religion in Global Affairs
In terms of global affairs, religion can serve as a potent force that unites and protects disenfranchised people worldwide. For instance, Christian liberation theology worked for achieving a greater degree of social justice and equality (Liberation Theology, Economic Inequality, and Social Justice, n.d.). Jesus gave to the poor and helped those in need; in this regard, Christianity can use his example to initiate a push for a more just society.
However, a divisive potential lies in the problem of balancing between the secular and religious paradigms. The United Nations — a secular institution, is responsible for maintaining and respecting religious diversity worldwide (Many “Worlds” in One, n.d.). This task may become problematic in cases when secular freedom of speech collides with accusations of religious blasphemy. As a result, a desire to defend religion can lead to anti-secularism, anti-modernism, and deep social conflicts.
Conclusion
Religion holds significant power in various aspects of human life. This power may either unite or divide within the same area of influence. On the one hand, major faiths create common grounds, such as moral laws, social justice, and respect for the environment. On the other hand, religion may be misused for justifying violence and disrupting progress. As such, maintaining the balance between religious and secular worldviews is difficult but crucial for the future of humanity.
References
Duties and Law [MOOC]. In Approaches to Studying Religions. Sophia Learning. Web.
Liberation Theology, Economic Inequality, and Social Justice [MOOC]. In Approaches to Studying Religions. Sophia Learning. Web.
Many “Worlds” in One [MOOC]. In Approaches to Studying Religions. Sophia Learning. Web.
The Environment [MOOC]. In Approaches to Studying Religions. Sophia Learning. Web.
War and Peace [MOOC]. In Approaches to Studying Religions. Sophia Learning. Web.