Topic 5 - The Place Of Religion In Australian Society Flashcards
Describe the political role of religion
As members of a religion are apart of society they have an individual and collective right to engage in the political sphere of society.
HOW - 1) public debate
2) discussion (eg YouTube, newspapers homilies)
WHY? - 1) to stand up for beliefs/teaching (eg abortion)
2) stand up for the rights of it’s followers (eg right to practice faith)
3) stand up for the rights of others (homeless, asylum seekers)
“Give to ceaser what is ceasers and to God what is God’s”
Describe the social role of religion
There are 3 aspects of religion in society ;
1) Education - the first schools in Australia were religious
- it is normal to go to a religious school
- school, universities
2) Welfare - life link, st Vincent de Paul
3) Health - hospitals, health care
Evangelisation - teaching people about Jesus
Describe the cultural role of religion
Culture is used to keep the idea of religion fresh, exciting and engaging
1) art
2) music
3) literature
The book of Kelly’s is an illuminated manuscript of the Gospels in Latin
Describe the religious role of religion
It provides support and promotes opportunities for people to connect with the divine/something greater than oneself
It occurs in places of worship, community gatherings, opportunities to pray, opportunities to explore faith
The Australian constitution states that all people have freedom to freely engage with religion without discrimination
To what extent does religion have a place in society?
Religion has a very important place in society. It’s political, social, cultural and religious factors all contribute to the organisation of Australia, even if a third of religion claims not be associated with religious beliefs and values.
- religion has an under-appreciated place within society
- without religious influence the values and respect often associated with society in Australia would not exist
