Religion In The Workplace Essay

Religion and Spirituality in the Workplace

Religion in the workplace has been a controversial topic as well as a difficult issue that employers and employees must face. Religion remains to be a significant issue as organizations continue to become more diverse. Within the cultures and organizations throughout the world there are many different beliefs, practices and morals. There are laws however in place to protect religion as a freedom of expression. The laws protect individuals from discrimination based on religion, ethnic background, culture and practices, at the same time protecting organizations from potentially being sued for not providing accommodations to those who practice their beliefs. The argument surrounding religion in the workplace is whether or not religion is beneficial and should it be allowed to be practiced. This essay will attempt to show through the utilitarian and deontology theories and the relativism perspective, how religion is viewed by society and organizations within the workplace.

“For some people religion is no longer as important as it once was; second business leaders do not trust institutionalized religious leaders as much as they once did; and third, religion can be divisive” (King, 2007). In contrast, those who are affiliated with religious groups or cultures believe religion is a way of life. Perspectives will vary among individuals and organizations, According to Garcia-Zamor, “In one culture, the natural attributes of spirituality may be enhanced while another they may be denigrated” (2003, p.356). Understanding the issues surrounding religion in the workplace requires an approach to balance the needs of both the business and the employees desire to practice