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CONFERENCE PROCEEDING
The Importance of Religion in the Secular Society
Nur Amirah Sharafiyah Binte Mohammad Zamri Madrasah Alsagoff Al-Arabiah
*Corresponding author: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
The aim of this paper is to raise awareness of religion being an important principle in secular society.
This paper focuses on three views that show religion as being a necessity in the modern world and its relationship with the secular society. This study was carried out through critical readings and analysis of scholarly articles and published materials. Many secular societies believe that religion should be separated from the government to allow for a fairer rule of the people. This study is aimed to show that religion is not burdensome, but instead provides happiness and peace around the world. In the social aspect, religion has three major functions in society which is providing social cohesion to help maintain social solidarity through rituals, beliefs, and conformity. This study concludes that religion has become popular in the modern world as it teaches people to be righteous, adhering to the law and respectful to the authority of the state.
Keywords: Importance; Religion; Secular Society; Harmony; Believes
INTRODUCTION
When we were born, religion was the first thing that we held onto. It is important as it gives us the opportunity to choose our path. It is a set of organized beliefs, practices, and systems that most often relate to belief and worship of a controlling force such as a personal God or another supernatural being (Mark Stibich, 2020).
However, in most societies today, it is commonly perceived that the best society is one that separates the state from religion. This is a concern that shall be addressed in this research as for one who believes and/or practises a religion, and in this case, Islam, it is not logical to live as a practising Muslim, separately, from the context of a global secular political system. Nevertheless, in the course of doing this study, considering the limitations on relevant materials made available, the depth of discussion may not be able to address the issue comprehensively.
Background
This study is based on the understanding of three principles which protect and underpin many of the freedoms we enjoy. Firstly, separation of religious institutions from state institutions and a public sphere where religion may participate, but not dominate. Secondly, freedom to practice one's faith or belief without harming others, or to change it or not have one, according to one's own conscience. Lastly, equality, so that our religious beliefs or lack of them does not put any of us at an advantage or a disadvantage.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
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The materials that have been used in this paper are articles and resources that are related to the topic that the paper is trying to address. In my critical reading of the printed and online materials, paraphrasing tools are used as a guidance to show my understanding of the information read.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
First, there are the social issues of secularism and religion to consider. Durkheim, a French sociologist, states that religion brings positive energy to society and that most scientists believe it brings happiness, whereas atheists face depression. In addition, religion serves three major functions in a country or state: providing social cohesion and control to enforce religiously based morals, and providing answers to questions.
This idea has supported the issue raised in this research by demonstrating that religion brings light into people's lives rather than darkness. This shows how important religion is in any society, secular or otherwise.
Next is the history of secularism. In the United States, the first amendment respects religion and the term "religion" is used to refer to a wide range of religious practices and beliefs. Historically, secularism was brought about because individuals believe they can eliminate the injustice that exists in religion, which the West continues to acknowledge. The goal of religious practitioners is to work together to promote harmony and peace. This point has been useful since it demonstrates how Western civilization still values the serenity that religion offers to the community, despite their 1851 decision to ban it in order to prevent injustice.
Lastly, sociological research has shown that there is a positive correlation between religion and performance in all spheres of life. Religious institutions are the source of a lot of civilized labour in Canada, according to religion discovery experts, Twiss and Kelsay. The advantages would also be lost if they removed it from the state because humanity would be destroyed. However, if it stays, we will benefit from the advantages of religion. With this idea, it supports this study as originally mentioned, that from religion, we can achieve humanity and the advantages that make us have the best manners.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, this paper has achieved its aim in addressing the issues on the importance of religion in a secular society. This research challenges the belief that it is a good idea to have secularism in this world and separating religion from the life of the global community. With the materials that have been studied and researched, it helps to convey a clear message to the world that religion does play an important role in our life as a global community
REFERENCES
Boundless.“BoundlessSociology.” Lumen, courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless sociology/chapter/thestructure-of-religion-in-the-u-s/.
Boundless. “Boundless Sociology.” Lumen, courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless- sociology/chapter/the functionalist-perspective-on-religio n/.
Mark Stibich, PhD. “How Religion Can Improve Health.” Verywell Mind, 24 Sept. 2020 National secular society. “What Is Secularism?” National Secular Society
Ontario human rights commission. “The Relationship between Religions and a Secular Society.” The Relationship between Religions and a Secular Society | Ontario Human Rights Commission, www.ohrc.on.ca/en/creed-freedom-religion-and-human-rights-special-issue-diversity-
magazine-v olume-93-summer-2012/relationship-between-religions-and-secular- society#_ftnref4.
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Priya, Rashmi. “The Durkheim's Sociology of Religion and Its Function.” Your Article Library, 1 Dec.
2014
