THE GLOBALIZATION OF RELIFGION

Slide 1

Globalization Perspective (Left Side, Black Background):

Values Material Wealth: Globalization often emphasizes the importance of economic success
and material gains. This perspective values financial prosperity as a measure of success and
progress, promoting a mindset where wealth accumulation and consumption are indicators of
achievement.

Human-Made Laws: Globalization operates within a framework of laws created by societies and
governments, which are aimed at fostering economic growth and stability. These laws are secular
and prioritize social order, economic progress, and individual freedoms within a human-centered
structure.

Focus on Human Achievement: There’s a strong belief in human potential to reach new levels of
material satisfaction through technological and industrial progress. This mindset suggests that
wisdom and insights are acquired as societies progress economically, seeing development as a
self-sustaining cycle.

Religious Perspective (Right Side, White Background):

Focus on the Sacred: Religion places higher value on sacred or divine aspects of life,
emphasizing moral and spiritual growth over material success. This perspective encourages
individuals to seek a deeper connection with the divine, valuing qualities like compassion,
humility, and selflessness.

Divine Commandments: Religious individuals live according to commandments or spiritual

guidelines provided by a higher power. These rules are believed to transcend human-made laws
and aim at leading individuals toward moral purity and ethical behavior.
Communication with the Transcendent: Religion assumes that humans can connect with a higher
spiritual realm or divine being. This is often achieved through prayer, meditation, or rituals that
aim to bridge the gap between the human and divine realms, fostering a life of spiritual devotion.

Slide 2

Globalization Perspective:

Less Concerned with Afterlife: Globalists are typically more focused on achieving success and
enrichment in this life, rather than focusing on what happens after death. This view aligns with a
secular outlook, where personal growth and fulfillment are prioritized.

Contribution to Global Progress: Those driven by globalization ideals often see their work as a
part of a larger system that benefits society as a whole. They believe their individual success
contributes to the progress of the community, nation, and global economic system. This approach
is utilitarian, promoting the idea that individual achievements collectively enhance the global
community.

Religious Perspective:

Less Focused on Wealth: Religion tends to place less emphasis on the accumulation of wealth,
viewing it as secondary to spiritual well-being. Religious people may view excessive wealth as a
distraction from one’s true purpose, which is to live a moral and pious life.

Living a Virtuous Life: The main duty of religious individuals is to lead a life in alignment with
spiritual principles, often avoiding sins and striving for righteousness. They believe that moral
conduct and virtue will ensure a place in the afterlife, contrasting with the globalist's emphasis on
earthly achievements.

Slide 3
Globalization Perspective :

Values Economic Expansion: Globalists value economic growth as both a means and an end.
They believe that by expanding economies globally, all countries and communities can prosper.
This perspective views the spread of goods and services as beneficial for everyone, with an
emphasis on open markets, trade liberalization, and free enterprise.

Focus on Spreading Goods and Services: Globalization promotes the distribution of goods and
services across borders, creating interconnected markets and global trade networks. This
approach fosters interdependence and encourages innovation, aiming to raise living standards
worldwide.

Religious Perspective:

Skeptical of Politics and Power: Religious ideologies often view political power and the quest for
dominance as evidence of human frailty and moral corruption. From this perspective, power
struggles are seen as a distraction from spiritual pursuits and are often regarded as undermining
ethical values.

Spread of Holy Ideas: Instead of seeking economic or political dominance, religions aim to
spread spiritual teachings and holy ideas globally. This is often done through missionary work,
teachings, and acts of service, with the goal of inspiring moral behavior and fostering peace,

rather than gaining material or political advantage.

Integration of Globalization and Integration

Globalization and religion are interconnected primarily through religious evangelization, which
involves spreading the Good News of God to diverse cultures and societies. As religions grow,
they interact with different cultures, adapting their beliefs to fit local customs while also
influencing those cultures. This process shows how evangelization acts as a form of
globalization, enabling religious beliefs and practices to spread in a global scope.

Effects of Religious Evangelization

Globalization, a key part of today’s world, means that people and countries are more connected
and rely on each other more than ever before, regardless of where they are. When it comes to
religion, this increased connection affects how people understand and practice their faith, often
leading to changes in religious beliefs and customs across different societies.

Membership to a religious group, organization, or cult represents a superior affiliation that

connects humans directly to the divine and the supernatural. These philosophical differences
explain why certain groups 'flee' their communities and create impenetrable sanctuaries where
they can practice their religions without the meddling and control of authorities. These groups
believe that living among 'non-believers' will distract them from their mission or tempt them to
abandon their faith and become sinners like everyone else. Some Examples of Effect of
Globalization on religion:

1.Mixing of religions and beliefs

2.Spread Religion

3.Secularization

4. Use of modern Tools by Religion

Reality of their Relationship

In reality, the relationship of religion and globalism is much more complicated than we thought.

As we define globalism, it is the operation or planning of economic and foreign policy on a

global basis. And religion as a particular system of faith and worship.
Mr. Peter Berger, a sociologist and protestant theologian said, “contemporary world is…
furiously religious.” In most of the world there are unquestionable rise of occurrence of different
religions formation, major religions or has religious traditions such as:

CHRISTIANITY- major religion stemming from the life, teachings, and death of Jesus of
Nazareth (the Christ, or the anointed one of God)

JUDAISM- the world’s oldest monotheistic religion, believe in one God who revealed himself

ISLAM- major world religion promulgated by the prophet Muhammad in Arabia, means
“submission to the will of god”

HINDUISM- major world religion originating on the Indian subcontinent, it refers to a rich
cumulative tradition of texts and practices

CONFUCIANISM- an ancient Chinese belief system, which focuses on the importance of

personal ethics and morality

According to the book, Religions are the foundations of modern republics.

IN MALAYSIA

-The Malaysian government places religion at the center of the political system
-Their constitution states that “Islam is the religion of the federation”
-Rulers of state are the “Head of the Religion- meaning for example, just a representation, in our
country, the different leaders of provinces, such as governors are the head of their religion.

WHILE IN IRAN

Ayatollah Ruholla Khomeini

-Late Iranian religious leader

-He pointed out “There is no fundamental distinction among constitutional, despotic, dictatorial,
democratic, and communistic regimes”
-He bragged about the Islamic rule is superior over its secular counterparts because it was
spiritual
-To him, all secular ideologies were the same. They were flawed, and their Islamic rule is
superior form of government since it was spiritual.
-Yet, Iran calls itself republic, which is a term associated with secular. Because republic is a
form of government in which “supreme power is held by the people and their elected
representatives” regardless of their religion

The word secular will be mentioned in most of this discussion, so let us define it
Secular is not subject to or bound by religious rule, denoting things that have no religious or
spiritual basis.

IN INDONESIA

The Nahdlatul Ulama which is Islamic organization in Indonesia

-Has Islamic schools (Pesantren) where in students were taught not only Islam, but also modern
science, social sciences, modern banking, civic education, right of women, pluralism, and
democracy. (While in other cases, religion was the result of a shift in a state policy, such as the
case in

IN ENGLAND

- said it was “shaped by the rationality of modern democratic (and bureaucratic) culture

AS KING HENRY VIII

-Broke away from Roman Catholicism and established his own church to build and support his
own power

IN UNITED STATES

-Religion and law were fused together to help “modern secular society”
-It was observed in 1800 by Alexis de Tocqueville

-A French historian
-Wrote “not only we do the Americans practice their religion out of self-interest but they often
even place in this world the interest which they have in practicing it.

JOSE CASSANOVA

-Confirms the statement of Tocqueville, and said “historically, religion has always been at the
very center of all great political conflicts and movement of societal forms”
-From the independence to abolition, from nativism to women’s suffrage, from prohibitions to
the civil rights, movement, religion has always been at the center of conflicts but also on both
sides of the political barricades.

This remains the case until today with the power the Christian right has on the Republican Party.

The relationship between religion and politics has come under increasing scrutiny in recent
International Relations scholarship as terms such as religion, secularism, secularization and the
post-secular that shape and are shaped by ongoing discussions of the relationship between
religion and public life. With that, it is said there that in some ways, religious reasoning and
language have a power to articulate and convey moral and political messages in a way that
secular language alone does not.

Religion for and against Globalization

This statement points to the complex relationship between religion and globalization. Many
contemporary religious movements resist globalization, viewing it as a secular, "profane" force
that undermines traditional beliefs and values. These movements see globalization as a vehicle
for Western consumerism, individualism, and secularism, which can erode sacred, long-standing
cultural and moral systems. For these groups, globalization is often perceived as a threat to their
identity and to the cohesion of their communities.

However, certain "old world religions"—likely referring to major, established religions with
deep historical roots, such as Christianity and Islam—have a more nuanced view. They may see
globalization as an opportunity to expand their reach, share their beliefs globally, and foster
interfaith dialogue. This open-minded view stems from the fact that these religions have long
histories of adapting and integrating across diverse cultures. Globalization provides them with
access to new platforms and audiences, allowing them to spread their teachings and influence
worldwide.
Yet, globalization also brings risks to these religions. The homogenizing effect of globalization
can threaten to dilute or alter religious practices and values, which are often embedded in
specific cultural contexts. For instance, religious communities that adopt global media platforms
might adjust their messages to appeal to broader audiences, potentially softening traditional
practices or beliefs to remain relevant. This tension highlights the paradox of globalization: while
it offers unprecedented opportunities for expansion, it also pressures these religions to adapt in
ways that might undermine the very cultural and spiritual integrity that holds their communities
together.

Religion and its reaction to globalization

Globalization has significantly impacted the way religions are practiced, interpreted, and spread
across the world. It has led to increased pluralism, the spread of religious practices, and the rise
of transnational religious networks. However, it has also sparked conflicts and challenges,
particularly in the form of religious fundamentalism and extremism.

One of the most controversial reactions to globalization has been the rise of DAESH, also
known as ISIS. Many Muslims view globalization as a Trojan horse, hiding supporters of
Western values such as secularism, liberalism, and even communism. This perception has fueled
extremist ideologies, leading to significant global conflicts. ISIS (DAESH) and other radical
Islamist groups view globalization as a "Trojan horse" because they perceive it as a vehicle
for the erosion of Islamic identity, values, and political autonomy under the guise of
economic development, technological progress, and cultural exchange. This metaphor draws
from the ancient Greek story of the Trojan War, where the Greeks hid soldiers inside a giant
wooden horse to sneak into the city of Troy. In the same way, ISIS sees globalization as a
seemingly benign or even beneficial force that, when welcomed, ultimately leads to the
destruction of what they consider the true, pure Islamic way of life.

ISIS believes that globalization brings with it the spread of Western (particularly American)
culture, which they view as morally corrupt and antithetical to Islamic values. This includes the
promotion of secularism, individualism, consumerism, liberalism, and sexual freedoms—values
that ISIS believes undermine the traditional social structures and religious teachings of Islam.
They view the spread of Western media, entertainment, and lifestyle as a cultural invasion that
weakens the Islamic community’s commitment to religious principles.

• Westernization is seen as a threat to Islamic identity because it encourages Muslims to

abandon their religious obligations in favor of materialism, consumerism, and secularism. For
example, the spread of alcohol, drugs, pornography, and promiscuity through global media is
perceived as a direct assault on Islamic moral values.

On the other side of the spectrum, Pope Francis has condemned globalization's so-called
"throw-away culture." He believes this culture is "fatally destined to suffocate hope and increase
risks and threats." The Pope's stance reflects a broader concern within the Catholic Church about
the erosion of traditional values in a globalized world. Pope Francis has been vocal in
condemning aspects of globalization, particularly its negative effects on the poor, the
environment, and human dignity. While he does not reject globalization outright, he has
criticized the way it has been harnessed by powerful economic interests and political elites to
exacerbate inequality and exploit vulnerable populations. His critiques focus on economic
globalization, the marginalization of the poor, and the environmental degradation that often
accompanies it. Pope Francis advocates for a form of globalization that is more inclusive,
ethical, and focused on the common good.

Buddhism has taken a different approach to globalization. Buddhist Global Networks for Peace
have emerged, focusing on promoting peace and harmony in an interconnected world. These
networks aim to address global issues through the lens of Buddhist teachings, emphasizing
compassion and understanding. Buddhism's reaction to globalization is similarly complex,
shaped by the diverse traditions and schools within Buddhism, and the way in which
globalization interacts with its teachings, cultural practices, and institutions. One of the most
positive responses to globalization from Buddhist communities is the global spread of
Buddhist teachings, especially through the internet, digital media, and international Buddhist
organizations. Buddhism has become a globalized religion, with teachings on mindfulness,
meditation, compassion, and ethical living being embraced in Western societies and around the
world.
Hindu nationalism has also responded to globalization by emphasizing cultural preservation.
Many Hindu nationalists believe that globalization threatens traditional Hindu values and
practices. They advocate for the protection of Hindu culture and identity in the face of Western
influence.

Example;

According to Singleton from Oxford University Press. Hinduism’s reaction to globalization is

the global spread of practices like yoga and meditation, which are often associated with Hindu
philosophy. While yoga has ancient roots in Hindu tradition, its modern, commercialized form
focusing on physical exercise, wellness, and spiritual mindfulness—has become a global
phenomenon, especially in Western countries. Critics argue that the Western adoption of yoga
often strips it of its deeper spiritual and religious context, reducing it to a fitness practice
disconnected from its Hindu roots. This tension reflects how globalization can lead to both the
spread of Hindu practices globally and the dilution or misinterpretation of traditional values.

The Catholic Church, under Pope Francis, has embraced global issues as part of its mission.
The Church is actively involved in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and
environmental degradation. This engagement reflects a broader shift towards a more inclusive
and global outlook within the Catholic faith.

Example;

Vatican’s Opposition to Same sex marriage and Abort

As same-sex marriage became legal in many countries around the world, the Catholic Church
stood firmly against it, arguing that marriage should be between a man and a woman as part of
its teachings on natural law and the sanctity of the family. In a similar vein, the Church has
consistently opposed abortion, considering it morally wrong under all circumstances. This stance
has led to tensions in various countries where abortion rights and LGBTQ+ rights have gained
legal and social acceptance.
Religion and its reaction to globalization (Philippine Context)

Moral grounds enabled religious people to justify their political participation ang involvement.
There are few results of it in the Philippine context. First is when American President William
McKinley claimed "that after a night of prayer and soul-searching, he had concluded that it was
the duty of the United States 'to educate the Filipinos, and uplift and civilize and Christianize
them, and by God's grace do the very best we could by them."

Also, the occupation of Spaniards in some lands of America (particularly) in the South America,
its for the sole reason that it was done in the name of the King of Spain and of God (3Gs).

Religion in the Philippines has a tremendous impact on society values, culture, and identity. The
country is largely Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the most common denomination,
followed by numerous Protestant groups, the Iglesia ni Cristo, and other indigenous Christian
sects. Islam is also an important religion, especially in Mindanao. As globalization continues to
influence different parts of life, religion in the Philippines has reacted and adapted in numerous
ways:

1. Religious Adaptation and Integration

 Catholicism and Modernization: The Catholic Church in the Philippines has sought to
remain relevant by addressing global issues such as climate change, human rights, and
poverty. Pope Francis' encyclicals, such as Laudato Si', have resonated locally,
encouraging environmental stewardship.

 Ecumenism and Interfaith Dialogue: Globalization has encouraged more interfaith

initiatives, promoting unity among different religions in the face of shared challenges like
poverty and conflict.

2. Resistance to Certain Global Influences

 Opposition to Western Liberal Values: Many religious groups, particularly the
Catholic Church, have opposed certain aspects of Western culture, such as same-sex
marriage, divorce legalization, and abortion. They view these as threats to traditional
Filipino values.

3. Religious Pluralism and Identity

  Globalization and Religious Diversity: Increased migration and the influence of
global religious movements have introduced new faiths and practices to the
Philippines, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and various New Age beliefs.
 Strengthening of Religious Identity: For many Filipinos, religion remains a
source of identity and community amid rapid societal changes brought by
globalization.

In conclusion, religion in the Philippines remains a dynamic force in the face of globalization.
While adapting to new realities, it also attempts to maintain basic values and traditions, blending
local identity with global influences.

CONCLUSION:

While globalization is often described as a process that influences nearly every aspect of society
—such as economy, culture, politics, and even personal identities—religion is frequently seen as
somewhat detached from this global force. The authors suggest that religion is positioned as an
observer rather than an active participant within globalization. This could be because religious
institutions and beliefs are often rooted in longstanding traditions, values, and identities that
resist the rapid changes globalization brings. As a result, religion is often viewed as standing on
the sidelines, evaluating globalization’s potential benefits or dangers, rather than being reshaped
or significantly altered by it. This perception may overlook the ways in which religions actually
adapt, spread, and evolve in response to global exchanges, migrations, and cultural interactions.
Modernization often emphasizes scientific reasoning, empirical evidence, and progress based on
observable facts. Since religion is based on faith rather than empirical proof, it can be seen as
incompatible with modern, rational thinking. According to secularization theory, as societies
become more industrialized, urbanized, and focused on scientific advancements, religious
institutions and beliefs may lose their influence over people's lives. However, this theory has
faced criticism, as many societies remain deeply religious despite modernization, suggesting that
the relationship between religion and modernization is complex and not purely one-directional.
Samuel Huntington, a prominent supporter of globalization, acknowledged in his book The
Clash of Civilizations that religion plays a fundamental role in uniting societies and shaping
cultural identities. Huntington’s argument was that civilizations are not solely defined by
political or economic factors but can be held together by shared religious beliefs and values. He
observed that religion serves as a core aspect of many civilizations, creating a common
worldview and a sense of unity among people. In this way, Huntington highlighted that, even in
a globalized world, religious worldviews remain powerful forces that can preserve cultural
coherence and identity across generations. Max Weber famously explored the link between
religion, particularly Calvinism, and the development of capitalism in his work The Protestant
Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. Weber argued that Calvinist beliefs, especially the idea of
predestination, led followers to seek signs of their salvation through worldly success. To
Calvinists, hard work, discipline, and the pursuit of profit became ways to demonstrate their faith
and prove they were among the "elect." This mindset redefined profit as a positive sign of divine
favor and encouraged the ethical pursuit of wealth. Weber suggested that this "Protestant ethic"
significantly influenced the development of modern capitalism, as it promoted values of
efficiency, rationality, and economic growth that became foundational to capitalist societies.
Religion has shown remarkable resilience throughout history, adapting and enduring in ways that
many secular ideologies, like communism, have not. While secular movements have often faded
or evolved, religious beliefs and institutions have continued to thrive. This enduring presence
means that even in a globalized world, religion remains a powerful and influential force that
cannot be ignored. Despite certain "inflexible" aspects—such as strict moral teachings, warnings
of punishment, promises of salvation, and specific practices like pilgrimages—religions have
demonstrated an ability to adapt to changing times and diverse cultural contexts. They are, in
essence, more flexible and responsive than they may initially appear, allowing them to survive
and even grow in an increasingly interconnected world.