The social responsibility aspect of religion

Religion is the ideal concept that separates human kind from the rest of the animal kingdom through social responsibility and morality. It encompasses an institutionalized set of beliefs and attitudes that are formed and practised over generations. The social responsibility aspect of religion is what creates the foundation of laws and social structure for a society to evolve over time. The morality gives a path for guidance to accept friendship, love family and respect the rights of others in order to co-exist in this world today. Religious practises give us a direction on how to treat our neighbours, and live our daily lives. The most important concept that religion creates is equality among everyone whether rich, poor young or old. Religion in the United States includes a wide diversity of beliefs and practises. A majority of Americans report religion as a “very important” aspect in their daily lives (Eck, pg 432). Religious freedom is highly valued in America, yet is not guaranteed to everyone. The history of America showcases the true ignorance towards religion displayed by the same people who claim to practise it daily. This essay will examine several works that showcase the perceptions of Native Americans and the prejudice displayed towards them that is deeply rooted from the American culture and local religious churches. The themes of religion and discrimination are displayed in the works of famous historical writers, Lydia Sigourney and William Apess. Sigourney and Apess are both Native American writers whose work shed light on the hypocrisy displayed by the religious society of America towards the religions of others. Also the documentary, In the Light of Reverence will be discussed to explore the arising conflicts over...

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...n Literature. Ed 7

Brown, Brian Edward. "Religion, Law, and the Land: Native Americans and the Judicial Interpretations of Sacred Land." Greenwood Press, 1999

Eck, Diana (2002). A New Religious America : the World's Most Religiously Diverse Nation. HarperOne.

In the Light of Reverence. Dirctor Christopher McLeod. Documentary. Bullfrog Films. 2001

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