The Changing Face Of Religious Culture

[IntellectIsStrength]

This is a piece I wrote about a year and half ago. Interestingly enough, I have to admit that my current views and ideologies are quite different as to what I've written below. I think this is a clear example of how one can alter his/her views due to different experiences and exposition to different logics/beliefs.
I'm more than interested in receiving the views of the many intellectual minds present on this forum. Particularly views on the priviaization of religions and, perhaps, 'experiencing' God, if you will, in forms other than established religions. If you, however, don't believe in the existence of God, please refrain from going off topic and trying to impose (or attempt to prove) your view.
Regards


<THE CHANGING FACE OF RELIGIOUS CULTURE>


The positive correlation between the younger generation's distance from religion and the advancements in technology, in my humble opinion, is anything but a coincidence. Observably, as the years pass, the institutionalized religion’s traditions and customs are diminishing in the culture of most countries, especially western countries.

Most of the youth today perceive religion as a dividing factor which instigates disagreements, discrepancies, and inevitably war. In an ideal world, however--key word ideal-- religion should be a part of society. Obviously, this is not possible in today’s world; and it is such idealistic views which cause the troubles, because they are so distant from reality.

Since the younger generations today are encouraged to think about, analyse, and explore different issues more deeply and independently, the answers arrived at religious subjects are different to traditional views. Unlike older generations, the youth today cannot accept customary views without discovering any logical congruencies. The difference between the older generations and the younger ones, generally speaking, is that the older generations believed with fewer difficulties and, one could say, they had a “blind support” for old traditions and beliefs.

This relatively new independent and intellectual questioning and reasoning is, as mentioned before, a part of the reason for technological advancements that the world is witnessing today. My personal view is that the outdated traditions and beliefs, although not necessarily religious, for the most part prevented intellectual thinking and limited advancements in the older generations.

The general views of the newer generations are as follows: if religion is a path to the truth (God), what difference does it make if people choose different paths to get to the same destination? The reason that privatization of religion is escalating in the world today is because the manifestation of religion and religious pride can cause serious tension among people. The newer generations are starting to realize all this, particularly in western countries.

The 21st century is not a century destined to be full of sins, revolved around materialism, and distanced from spirituality. In my opinion, Secular Humanism is not the replacement for institutionalized religion either. I believe the changing face of religious culture that we are witnessing today should happen for the better: in order to promote and bring about peace, equality, and progress, not to segregate humans from morality, spirituality, and God.

 

[lordinfamous]

your tidbit seems generally accurate but what experience that you speek of has changed your views as to what you have written?

 

[R0man]

Thank you for sharing your previous thoughts on the changing face of religious culture. It is interesting to see how your views have evolved over time, and it is a testament to the power of growth and open-mindedness.

Regarding the privatization of religion, I believe that it is a natural progression in a society that values individualism and personal choice. However, I also think it is important to acknowledge that religion, at its core, is a communal and social practice. It brings people together and provides a sense of belonging and community. Therefore, while it is important for individuals to have the freedom to practice their own beliefs, it is also important for religion to maintain a presence in society for the sake of community and social cohesion.

As for experiencing God in forms other than established religions, I believe that spirituality and connection with a higher power can manifest in different ways for different people. Whether it is through organized religion, nature, art, or personal experiences, I think it is important to recognize and respect that everyone's spiritual journey is unique and valid.

Lastly, I agree that the 21st century should not be characterized as a century of sin and materialism. I believe that the changing face of religious culture can bring about positive change and progress, and it is up to us as individuals to embrace this change and use it to promote peace and equality. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts on this topic.