Essay On Theories Of Religion And Secularism

- What political or economic factors contribute to religion’s violent or peaceful outcomes?
In the modern world, religion is the foundation of traditional cultures, involved in the processes of ethnic self-determination, and is an element of the value system of many modern societies.
Religion in political life of society influences on the public consciousness, so it is capable of forming people's opinion of the secular power, the policy of the state, etc. However, the most important thing is that religion has a strong positive impact on the spiritual sphere of life and thus determines all other spheres of human activities. By adjusting the spiritual sphere it can have a decisive influence on the whole range of human life, society and the state. Religion provides a unique opportunity to positively influence on the future of the world.
- How is religion important for world politics?
3. Can religion and modern society co-exist? Which theory best describes the role of religion in world politics?
Previously, religion was understood too primitive, and it hinders the proper understanding of some issues. Nevertheless, the role of religion in public life is increasing and it cannot be underestimated. Until recently, mass religious consciousness of the people was not taken into account. In the last decades of the XX century in various parts of the world there was a tendency to growth of the religious population. There appeared a lot of international religious organizations and foundations, religious parties and movements which activities have international character.
It begins to play an important role not only in the form of a social institution, and as the subject of politics, but also as a basis of national culture and history, philosophical and ethical teachings. Interfaith relations now go to the category of global issues together with the problems of disarmament, security, human rights, environmental and other issues.
4.Is religion a source of conflict or a force for peace?
Religion is a complex phenomenon, which influence on various aspects of social life is difficult to assess unambiguously. The religious factor becomes an important component of international life and carries some political consequences, because a society that finds meaning in religion, trying to obtrude its opinions upon others. The existence of religious groups outside the borders of the state, even if the religious group is on the other side of the world can be a significant factor in causing the conflict.
- How is religion important in international relations?
The most significant aspect of the relation between religion and politics is its coexistence, that should be the most reasonable method of state control over population professing different religions. Religion today serves as a kind of moral and ethical control, humanistic educational system focused on traditional values. Thus, in religion can be seen a mechanism for saving moral values and national identity and strengthening solidarity among nations and peoples.
The use of the religious factor in world politics is of particular relevance in the crucial periods of historical development. In all major religions have always existed common moral denominator, including mutual respect and respect for the customs and religious traditions of each other. World religions can and should give the necessary moral basis to international relations.