Globalisation & Religion

Question 1

Bruce

Answer 1

Increase in fundamentalism due to monotheistic faith
Religion is a form of cultural defense - protecting traditional cultures

Question 2

Criticism

Answer 2

As globalisation exposes individuals to different religions, it can undermine the authority of belief systems that claim to be one true faith

Question 3

What are the roles of religion in a globalised world?

Answer 3

• religion is a reaction to globalisation in a postmodern time of uncertainty
• used as a cultural defense against external threats (Bruce)
• aids economic development

Question 4

What does Giddens say are the two reactions to globalisation?

Answer 4

Cosmopolitanism
- people or societies which are tolerant of the views of others, embracing multiculturalism

Fundamentalism
- people or groups that defend tradition, believe in literal truth of scripture, reject religious pluralism

Question 5

What does Castells say are the 2 responses to postmodern society?

Answer 5

Resistant identity
- defensive reaction of those who feel threatened and retreat into fundamentalism

Project identity
- forward looking people who engage with social movements like feminism

Question 6

Huntingdon

Answer 6

7 civilisations
- ‘them’ VS ‘us’ mentality eg. between West & Islam
- conflicts are deep-rooted

Question 7

What does Nanda say about the role of Hinduism in the (economic) development of India?

Answer 7

• religion legitimates the rise of Hindu ‘ultra-nationalism’
• legitimates the prosperity of the Indian middle class

Question 8

What is Hindu ‘ultra-nationalism’?

Answer 8

The belief that Indian national identity and culture are inseparable from the Hindu religion

Question 9

What is Redding’s theory?

Answer 9

‘the spirit of Chinese Capitalism’

• East Asian ‘tiger’ economies (South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore) have seen economic rise in recent decades
• Confucianism has led to hard work, frugality, self-discipline + a commitment to education