5) Religion in a Global Context

• Religion and Development


  the importance of science and technology in economic development, and the rational worldview on which they depend, are seen as destroying belief in the supernational
• religion may also contribute to development. Sociologists have examined what role religion may play in todays globalising world.
• Globalisation has brought rapid economic growth and has seen India become a more important player on the world political stage.

  also brought rising prosperity to some.
• Hinduism and Consumerism 


  Nanda states that the vast majority of Indias are becoming more religious and has led to a dramatic growth of religious tourism, such as visits to temples.

  • class will become more secular, need for the traditional religion of Hinduism diminishes until their new-found prospect. However, Nanda claims the opposite has occurred.
  • Globalisation = increase in religion in India - against existential security as an explanation.
• Capitalism in East Asia 


  countries such as South Korea and Taiwan (most followed religions being Buddhism) and have remained religious. China is now a major global industrial power.

  many Chinese citizens do not identify as being religious but there lives are dedicated by religious practices. eg. temple to pray for things.
• Capitalism in East Asia - Redding (1990)


  Webers idea of the 'spirt of capitalism' to countries like this, with an emphasis on hard work, self-discipline and a commitment to education.

  this is similar to the Protestant ethic in that it leads to economic productivity and the accumulation of capital.