The main function of religious belief is to promote social stability according to functionalists. When Durkheim did research of religion in the Australian Aborigines he found that they have a totem which is an emblem of the clan. This totem is a symbol of god and of their society. Durkheim argued that as the totem is both the symbol of god and society, then people are not actually worshipping God but are in fact worshipping society. Durkheim believed that the main function of religious belief is to promote social stability which is reinforced by the collective conscience.
The life of Christ in Mark’s Gospel evidently accounts the humble and just acts of Jesus Christ on earth. Jesus was seen as an activist, a teacher and a healer. He touched the lives of many people in sickness, taught us the ways of faith and challenged the position of other people of power at the time. The ministries of Jesus teach us relevant lessons not only for the people that were living the New Testament but also for catholics to reflect on today. Mark’s Gospel has a vast number of examples portraying Jesus as a leader of new teachings.
Why do we need a new flag? The current Australian flag does not represent many of the characteristics of Modern Australian Society. The current flag shows that we, Australia, still follow many of the doctrines of the British, which we no longer do. The symbols on the flag show a defunct relationship between
Australians should join together in disagreement of the proposed bill to cut all funding and political support for religious organisations under the premise that there is “no evidence that religions make a significant contribution to the individual or to Australian society”. It is in every Australian citizen’s best interest, religious or not, to disagree with this bill as the practice of religious beliefs and support from Monotheistic religious organisations contribute to individuals and society. These organisations act as a guideline to life through the characteristics of religion and furthermore, religions incorporate the supernatural element to form a belief system to impact individuals and society in an optimistic manner. Contributions
The teaching of Islam appeals to many individuals because it places high emphasis on honesty, generosity, and social justice. Sharing common ancestors, a belief in divinely given written scriptures, common rituals and practices, such as regular prayer and charity; valuing pilgrimage and sharing common holy places;
We may not even realise it, but a lot of the laws that govern the way we live in Australia are taken from and/ or based on the Ten Commandments. These are a list of religious and moral imperatives that were given by God to the people of Israel. They were an
Inter-religious conflicts dominate the headlines and casts doubts on the positive role of religion. With such problems prevalent in society, it is truly justified that some question if religion has a place in modern society. Religion, though flawed, has its roles. For instance, the preachings of certain religions actually teach followers to take on selfless roles in society to aid the less fortunate. It is also due to the strong backing of religion that organisations such as the YMCA Youth For Causes are formed to benefit society.
Durkheim saw religion as a positive force within society as it has essential and beneficial effects for the society. Durkheim supported his theory by conducting secondary research which was based on Australian Aboriginals. He looked at the Aborigine religion of totetism - where certain clans associate themselves with certain objects imbued with sacred powers e.g. animals or plants that are believed to have special powers. By worshipping these objects they were celebrating their own society.
the bible teaches us to forgive others as we would want God to forgive us. But we are also taught in one of the greatest commandments to love our neighbor as we would love ourselves. And what better way to show our love, by supporting them in harsh times and providind a body to lean on. Additionally, Christians should also acknowledge global poverty by action and activity- getting to our feet, going out and doing something to change the world. Certainly it is our duty to pray for the poor but there is so much more that we can do to help.
Through his commitment to save mankind and by living a life that reflected Jesus Christ; he shows others how to live like him. He believes in his mission so strongly that he willingly gives up his freedom and his life like Jesus Christ did. In the book, he discovers in himself a commitment to save mankind (Owens 40). He tells Tom Joad: “I figgered about the Holy Sperit and the Jesus road. I figgered, ‘Why do we got to hang it on God or Jesus?