2 Primary Reasons Religion Can Be Divisive in Society
In a world where unity is often sought, religion can paradoxically be a source of deep division. To understand why, we've gathered insights from founders who reflect on the divisive nature of religious beliefs. From the personal struggles with religious choices and painful doubts to the clashes of belief systems and doctrines, explore the two profound reasons they've shared on this complex issue.
- Religious Choices and Painful Doubts
- Clashes of Belief Systems and Doctrines
Religious Choices and Painful Doubts
All of us are trying to figure out the right way to do life, and it's not always clear. And while we are all trying to figure it out, we don't like being judged.
Religious systems provide a map for making choices. And when we become embedded within a religious framework, we can all become attached to the idea that we chose rightly, correctly, and others, wrongly. Challenges to our choices raise doubts, and doubts are painful. Doubts can be so painful that real dialogue becomes hard, as we must enter a real discussion with humility, admitting that we could be wrong.
Keith Evans, Founder, Keith Evans Photography
Clashes of Belief Systems and Doctrines
Religion can be divisive in society for various reasons, and one key factor is the deeply ingrained nature of religious beliefs and identities.
People often hold their religious convictions with great emotional and cultural significance, shaping their worldview and values.
When differing belief systems come into contact, it can lead to clashes as individuals may feel threatened or challenged in their fundamental beliefs. Additionally, religious doctrines sometimes prescribe specific moral codes and behaviors, creating a basis for judgments and conflicts when different groups adhere to conflicting principles.
In real-life scenarios, this divisiveness may manifest in social, political, or even familial contexts, where disagreements over religious practices or interpretations can intensify existing tensions.
The challenge lies in fostering understanding and tolerance among diverse religious communities to promote harmony and cooperation in society.
Aseem Jha, Founder & Head of Customer Delivery, Legal Consulting Pro
These observations clarify the many reasons why religion can cause social division:
Religion and Suffering Doubts:
- Religious frameworks frequently provide people a feeling of purpose and direction in life. These frames, meanwhile, can also breed attachment to the notion that one has made the "correct" decision.
- It can be quite upsetting for people to face obstacles or uncertainties regarding their religious beliefs. Humility demands the acceptance of uncertainty and the potential for error, which can be challenging to accept.
- Genuine conversation may be hampered by people's discomfort with doubt since they may be unwilling to participate in conversations that contradict their views. The interchange of ideas is further complicated by the fear of being evaluated or labeled "wrong".
Conflicts between Doctrines and Belief Systems:
- Religious convictions frequently have a profound impact on a person's identity, values, and worldview.
- Conflicts can occur when people with different belief systems interact because of the perception of a threat or challenge to one's core identity and beliefs.
- Furthermore, religious ideologies can dictate particular moral standards and conduct. It can cause judgments and conflicts when these teachings are at odds with those of other organizations.
- Beyond just human contacts, these conflicts may have an impact on social, political, and familial contexts, escalating already-existing tensions and divisions throughout society.
All things considered, the promotion of harmony and collaboration in society depends heavily on the cultivation of tolerance and understanding among various faith communities. In order to do this, it is necessary to recognize and confront the difficulties brought about by religious differences while making an effort to identify common ground and show respect for other people's opinions and views. As I have consistently stated on The Culture podcast, I will remain agnostic as I have yet to find a religion that properly conveys the inclusivity, welcoming, and unconditionally loving nature that I believe a god of any faith, should have.
