It is necessary to study a religion as a universal and pervasive phenomenon because it is often assumed to meet basic needs of human beings. Studying religion could help understand social order and the nature of things since religion remains one of the most influential dogmas in the contemporary society.
Materialism is a philosophic study and it is often tied to Karl Marx doctrine. It offers specific insight on the world. Materialism represents a chain of certain claims which help understanding the philosophies and core concepts of religions.
Interestingly, many of Chinese religions and religious philosophies were originated from Buddhism. Shinto and Buddhism are the major religions in Asia.
On separating from Buddhism, Asian religions gained national and cultural features. This information explains the fact that these religions have much in common. Though, they have several differences in the context of materialistic point of view conditioned by evolutionary historical, social, and cultural aspects.
Both Indian and Asian religions and religious philosophies question materialism as the best explanation of reality.
Confucianism has been considered to have more realistic nature in comparison to Buddhism. Still, Buddhism can answer some questions which are neglected by Shinto. At the same time, both religions co-exist in Asia peacefully.
Buddhists reject real life speaking more about death and afterlife period. Buddhism is concentrated on spirituality while Confucianism advocates correct behavior and morality in real life.
The analysis of Indian and Asian religions was conducted using materialistic philosophic approach. The analysis showed that Indian religions are more concentrated on spirituality while Asian religions are more focused on decent behavior in real life. Surprisingly, there is a confrontation inside of Indian or Asian religions than between Indian and Asian religions. Also, the analysis of the contemporary state of religious philosophies revealed crisis of materialism.
Works Cited
Fisher, Mary Pat. Living Religions.8th ed. London, New York: I.B. Tauris Publishers, 1997. Print.
