Why should religious institutions and governments or nation states aim to work together? What functions do religious institutions fulfill for individuals and society? What happens when governments restrict religious freedoms or favor certain religious institutions? In your discussion, use at least one specific example from the text to support and develop your points.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Religions are institutionally organized and as such (institutions) part of the broader social structure. Religious communities have tremendous social influence, political power, and meet important needs for individuals. Thus religious institutions influence society tremendously and thus the government/the state. They are part of the social fabric and shape social norms, beliefs, etc. This is why they can also be a threat to total religious freedom for those in the minority. They can also serve many important functions in society (social solidarity, etc.). At the same time, the state has influence over religious institutions through permissions/restrictions on religious freedoms. States may choose to restrict or allow religious practices. They may favor religious groups while banning others. While restrictions generally do not produce harmonious States, leaders may attempt to shape religious practice, participation, belief, etc. through the implementation of policy, law, etc. Examples from the text include: dominant religious groups emerging, religious persecution/discrimination/harassment, religious mobilization or call to political action, competition for resources between religious groups and the causes they sponsor, etc.