The Contemporary World - CONTEM_W PDF

THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD CONTEM_W  1 GLOBALIZATION AND MASS MEDIA What is Media/Mass Media All forms, tools, and means in which we consider as an important tool in disseminating,...

THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD CONTEM_W  1 GLOBALIZATION AND MASS MEDIA What is Media/Mass Media All forms, tools, and means in which we consider as an important tool in disseminating, sharing, and creating information ○ Regarded as the main vehicle of the rapid dissemination of information ○ It describes the various ways through which information is communicated in the society Refers to the communication channels through which we disseminate information Globalization and media have a very complex and intertwined relationship that is considered symbiotic Media is one of the important drivers of globalization as it is through media that the global community can understand the basic alphabets of what globalization is all about Key Aspects of the Relationship between Media and Globalization 1. Information Dissemination - Promotes cross-cultural understanding and awareness Facilitates the rapid flow of information and democratizes people’s access to all types of information across different parts of the world Information through news, ideas, and cultural products, both local and in the global scale ○ People have democratic access to these information through media Promotes cross-cultural understanding and collaboration through the dissemination of information via media 2. Media Convergence - Sharing and integration of content across national boundaries The role of media is to give people concrete access to information from different sources How globalization led to the convergence of different forms of media: traditional and new media  2 ○ New Media: Digital Media ○ Traditional Media: News Paper and Magazine The digital platforms have enabled media to widen their reach ○ Connection to globalization: digital platforms are products of technological advancement caused by globalization Context of convergence allows for the sharing and integration of content across national boundaries ○ Contributes to the globalized media landscape– in terms of information 3. Transnational Media Corporation - Production and distribution of media content worldwide Globalization has enabled the rise of transnational corporations that operate across multiple countries and regions across the globe Have a significant influence on the production and distribution of media content across the world ○ Hence, there is an inevitable condition where they influence and shape global media narratives that impact local cultures and values by promoting certain ideologies and products 4. Cultural Exchange and Hybridization - Enable people to engage and access diverse cultural content Both facilitated cultural exchange through media, wherein cultures can be shared globally, leading to cultural hybridization ○ Different cultures and ideas Media platforms enable the global community to access and engage in media narratives with diverse cultural content that foster cross-cultural dialogues, collaboration, and understanding ○ Media platforms such as social media or online streaming service providers 5. Media Imperialism - Control of global media landscape and threat to homogenization  3 Dominance of certain Western media and cultural products Powerful media conglomerates and media entity owners from developed countries have the normal tendency to control the global media landscape and narratives ○ Marginalizes local culture, perspectives, and traditions ○ They have the power to form and foster ideas that will only cater and support their own local interests (ie. of the west) 6. Challenges to Local Media - Loss of local voices and narratives; no sense of cultural preservation Global media competes with local media and leads to loss of local values and identity ○ It might give local cultures and media the opportunity to be represented at a global scale, but it poses a threat and challenges to local media industries Ie. there are more Filipinos that are more inclined to watch foreign shows rather than local shows (who tf would watch those local shows when they are so shitty) ○ Homogenization overshadows the uniqueness of the local media industry 7. Activism and Social Movements - Powerful tool for amplifying voices and forming social cohesiveness When you democratize people’s access to information, globalization and media become a crucial player in creating activism and social movements ○ People use these platforms to mobilize, support, and create international networks We can see how powerful social media is now when organizing protests and campaigns Extract public accountability  4 TYPES OF MEDIA TODAY Old / Traditional Media Traditional means of information dissemination: any form of mass communication available before the introduction of digital media: Examples: ○ The print media: the newspaper, magazines ○ The broadcast media: TV, radio, and out-of-phone advertising (ie. billboards) Was the primary source of news and entertainment befre the rise of digital media Due to its nature, it will be difficult to make changes once a message is broadcasted or published Have a well-defined structure and are regulated by the government and the industry leaders ○ Is not dependent on the internet ○ Thus people have less control over the message you want to share One-to-many communication model; one way communication ○ Few content distributors give information to large public audience ○ Very aristocratic; news sharing and production is not for everybody ○ Employ professional journalists and media practitioners Ensures that the information is free from fake news; information endured the test of reasons The relationship between the producer and the end user is very passive; we give the producer the power to pick what news can reach the public ○ Leads to growing concerns regarding the marginalization of certain issues that may be important to the general public ○ Envelopmental news practices: not all news is released since news companies also mean money; they can get paid to filter the information they release  5 Owners of media enterprises are politically and economically compromised They have to maintain certain revenue to required to maintain operations New Media Refers to websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking ○ Includes digital platforms such as podcasts, streaming services, social media Social media is an alternative platform for traditional media companies to maintain and expand their reach in terms of the media market Uses to ensure their relevance in the current generation ○ Examples: facebook, youtube, instagram, linkedIn, Wikipedia, pinterest However, it is dependent on the Internet to deliver content ○ So it is easy to make changes once a message is broadcasted or published More democratically accessible and engaging Many-to-many communication model; two way communication ○ Uses interactive user content which has revolutionized the way information is created and shared ○ Allows organizations and individuals to produce and distribute their own content without any traditional barriers All voices and activities are not filtered out You have more control over the message you want to share More vulnerable to fake news and privacy so requires media literacy Has significantly disrupted the traditional media models; now a major source of news and entertainment Common characteristics: 1. Global Reach  6 New media platforms have eliminated geographical barriers to allow information and content to be shared worldwide Useful in promoting cross-cultural awareness, exchange, and collaborations Ie. YouTube democratized access to everything you need to know 2. User-Generated content Most new media platforms enable individuals and organizations to share and create content independently Citizen Journalism: ordinary people can create content and share news globally Contributes to a more diverse range of perspectives Everyone is equally responsible for gatekeeping public and private institutions; we are the critical watchdogs of society that guards the truth Whatever is reported by those large media corporations (ie. ABS-CBN) is no longer taken as the end in itself Critically physicalize public opinion with real facts and evidences 3. Multilingual and Multicultural Content Allows for the dissemination, creation, and consumption of content to other languages and cultural contexts to address the language gap Online translation tools like google translate and subtitles Multilingual support enable for the engagement of content and cultures from different parts of the world We can watch and understand anime and Korean dramas because of subtitles 4. Real-Time Communication Manuel Castell: the power of technology to translate signals into the commodity  7 Many methods of quick communication and sharing that promote global dialogue and interstate collaboration Video conferencing tools allow the connection and engagement between people in different parts of the world Very important and useful in connecting people across geographical barriers and promoting global dialogue and collaboration 5. Global Advertising and Marketing Allows for companies and businesses to reach international audiences Equally facilitated the globalization of commercial media content and advertising strategies Characteristic of New Media that refers to it as a method to sell products GLOBAL MEDIA Global Media: the agents of globalization and neocolonialism (Iyorza&Ekwok) Transmits news, market information, or adverts and/or entertainment in forms of drama, music, and sports to audiences around the world and around the globe ○ Includes the international radio, television stations, newspapers, and the internet Have the ability to represent impersonal communication directed at a certain audience, to create and influence or control perceptions of what is important in the society ○ Can also secretly manipulate the audience through advertising Globalization of media is closely tied to the rise of new media as digital platforms have expanded their reach, accessibility, and interactivity of media content on a global scale New media further enabled the free flow of information, the exchange of cultural ideas and the formation of transnational networks ROLES OF INTERNATIONAL MASS MEDIA IN ENHANCING GLOBALIZATION: 1. Dissemination of Information Promotes cross-cultural understanding and awareness  8 International mass media including the news agencies, TV networks, and online news outlets all equally play a vital role in disseminating information ○ Information on the events, issues, trends Allow people to stay informed about the global happenings and let people properly engage in the provided narratives Empower individuals to make critical decisions 2. Bridging Geographical Divides Help resolve geographical divides by connecting people across different regions and countries Giving access to media content from other parts of the world ○ Foster a sense of interconnectedness and culture of inclusivity since it gives local voices a global platform to be represented 3. Cultural Exchange and Hybridization Through international mass media, people can engage with different cultures Exposure to diverse cultural expressions promotes understanding, appreciation, and sensitivity to different cultural practices ○ This leads to the blending and hybridization of cultural elements 4. Global News Networks International news networks provide comprehensive coverage of global events ○ CNN, BBC, Fox news Allow locals to be represented in a global scale by providing comprehensive coverage on global events Make global issues accessible to the locals; allows local and global audiences to access news from different perspectives ○ Help the audience be provided with on-the-ground reporting and analysis Plays a significant role in shaping political discourse 5. Transnational Media Corporations  9 Big corporations (e.g., Disney, TimeWarner etc.) own and control media outlets, distribute content globally, and affect the media consumption patterns Very significant since they facilitate the global circulation of cultural and media products 6. Global Advertising and Marketing Advertising companies are disemminated by international mass media outlets Contributes to the global spread of consumer brands, cultures, identities, and global economic market integration THE DIFFERENT PARADIGMS OF COMMUNICATION Has mass media been pluralistic and neutral in facilitating the flow of ideas, or has it been an instrument for the domination of western culture? This can be answered by looking at the different paradigms of communication COMMUNICATION AND DEVELOPMENT MODERNIZATION Media is more educational rather than political and economic ○ Emphasizes the role of communication on promoting social economic development Different scholars on the paradigm: ○ Mass media’s tasks of building human capital and speeding up social transformation (Wilbur Schramm) Recognizes the importance of empowering people and communities by giving them access to real information – that shape and helps people For people to participate in the decision-making process Emphasizes the role of communication in promoting social and economic development ○ Mass media’s power to foster the learning of empathetic skills (David Lerner) Develop empathetic skills in a nationalistic, patriotistic, and a developmentalistic way  10 Instead of dividing, teach people how to be united for the common cause of the country ○ Media creates imagined communities (Benedict Anderson) Promote the entrepreneurial spirit among the members of the state The Philippines is not just your country but your home ○ Mass media as a factor that intervenes between antecedent and consequences of modernization (Everett Rogers) Holistictic economic growth, development, and social change ○ Key concept: participatory communication and the idea that participatory communication is fundamental to everyone’s human rights CULTURAL IMPERIALISM AND MEDIA IMPERIALISM Media as a weapon where they promote their own local products and values that marginalize others ○ Erodes local culture and identity ○ Media Imperialism: power dynamics in the global media industry The western media corporations control the production, distribution, and dissemination of media content globally ○ It’s okay to have bias in media, but too much is also bad Bias may not necessarily be wrong; ie. media that is biased against the government may be a way to further improve the government Media is a business that shapes the global media landscape ○ They have the natural inclination to promote their own cultural products and ideas by marginalizing local voices and cultural expressions ○ Weaponize the global narratives If you control the global narratives, it is easy for you to justify whatever geopolitical stands and activities you wish to portray ○ Media is a political and economical tool  11 Media can promote certain agendas Different scholars on the paradigm: ○ Media messages are dominantly derived from Western Indisustralized states (Kraidy) ○ Media as an instrument of Major Powers (Hesmondhalgh) Controlling the global narratives will make it easier for major powers to necessitate and show in a good light their geopolitical standing ○ Media as a contributor to the homogenization of global culture (Matos) We can use media as a tool to promote homogenization “Whatever the Americans feel is necessary becomes the only necessary ideology that is worth accepting” 3 sides / spectrum : ○ Centrist - Doesn’t support either side; ensures balanced information is given ○ Anti-Government– media is biased against the government ○ Pro-Government– maybe is biased towards the government “Is news blackout good or bad?” – It can be both ○ Good: there are news that really cannot be released due to national security ○ Bad: there are news that the people really need to know CULTURAL PLURALISM Media as a potential tool for advocacies ○ Recognizes the values of diverse cultural expressions, perspectives, and identities within the global societies ○ Promotes inclusivity and the need for respect for differences and coexistence between multiple cultures Human-based approach to development  12 ○ Advocates for the need for a media system that reflects the diversity of the society Values media content that provides a platform for the marginalized ○ Seek to challenge the dominance of a single cultural perspective; different cultures must coexist and be equally significant Different scholars on the paradigm: ○ Media recognizing the role of the audience (Matos) Inclusivity of audience ○ Media moves towards heterogenization (Rantenen) Normalization of cultural diversity Media can be used as a platform to cause social movement in society ○ Communicate values worth sharing, promoting, and adapting ○ Community Pantry - Communities are responsible for economically unstable communities Started in Europe ISSUES ON GLOBAL MEDIA CULTURE 1. Cultural homogenzation While media promotes the spread of culture, there is till the risk of erosion and marginalization of cultural identities and values The ability of media being used can overshadow local practices and shit ○ Marginalized local culture 2. Wester Dominance and representation Due to the Western-centric perspective that dominates the global media Leads to the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of nonwestern cultures and perspectives ○ What America and the West feel is the only thing that matters  13 3. Media Ownership and Concentration Most transnational corporations are owned by American and Western countries ○ Uses media to promote their own agenda Limit diversity and representation in the global media landscape 4. Representation and Stereotyping Misrepresentations of various social groups It’s a fact that media representation can reinforce racial prejudice and inequality ○ Promotes biases, marginalization, misunderstanding, or CONFLICT! 5. Digital Divide and Access The disparity in access to the internet and digital technology between region and communities ○ Limits the participation and inclusivity of marginalized communities in the global media culture Exacerbates the existing socio-, politico-, and economic inequalities which hinders representation in the global media platform 6. Misinformation, Disinformation, and Fake News Very troubling issue.. Digital age has seen the rise of MISINFORMATION 🤮 ○ Fake news is easy to spread nowadays ○ Lack of effective fact-checking for both public and private institutions Undermines democratic process and social condition We can stop fake news with effective media literacy (i.e., factcheck)  14 LESSON 5: RELIGION Demographics of Religion in Maritime Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, Timor Leste): 63.3% Muslim, 31.2% Christian, 2.4% Buddhist, 0.21% Taoist, 1.7% Hindu, 0.03% Confucian, 0.26% No Religion, 1.0% Other RELIGION: is the socio-cultural system of designated behaviors and practices, morals, worldviews, texts, sanctified places, prophecies, ethics, or organizations that relates humanity to supernatural, transcendental, and spiritual elements Will have 2 dimensions: Material and Spiritual 1. Material Dimension– the dimensions of religion that are physical, tangible, and observable, ​associated wit religious practices and institutio It is the relationship of the believer to the religious community ○ Is expressed through external forms and activities visible and accessible to human senses Objects of religions such as temples, prayers, community helping; physical places, artifacts, and organized structures and hierarchies that govern religious communities ○ Places used for communal worships and religious gathering (churches, temples) ○ Practices such as funerals, marriage, funerals, and daily rituals Is quantifiable and can be empirically measured Anything observable, subjective, and gives you responsibility for your religious Religious institutions such as churches temples and etc provide organizational structures for religious communities. ○ Serves as very center for worship, religious education, and community service and most importantly the preservation and dissemination of their respective religious teachings  15 Material offerings also fall into the material sense ○ It is their way of manifesting devotion or using it as their means to connect it with their deity. 2. Spiritual Dimension– subjective dimension that is metaphysical or transcendental Pertains to the intangible inner aspects of religious belief and our experience in faith. This normally involves the personal and subjective relationship between individuals and the divine Religious belief encompasses doctrines teachings and the narratives that provide explanations about the nature of the divine. ○ It is where we find the real answer to the question of what is the purpose of life Faith is very important in every religion because it repairs our personal trust, devotion, conviction, and connections to our belief and the divine and it often involves our deep sense of meaning purpose, and connection with the divine. Prayer and meditation are spiritual practices that are found in many religious traditions and normally involve inward reflection and inward communication with the divine and we use this as a means to seek spiritual enlightenment or guidance Most religions provide the foundation for moral and ethical principles, which in effect guide us as a person, guide our respective community in matters of what is right, and wrong, what is justice, what compassion, charity, and social responsibility. This spiritual dimension of religion is very important to a community because it emphasizes the cultivation of virtuous moral integrity in the pursuit of righteous way of life Transcendence and the Ultimate Reality  16 ○ The spiritual dimension of religion also involves the quest for transcendence and the exploration of the ultimate reality or the divine. ○ Encompasses the yearning for a deeper meaning and understanding of the purpose of our very existence, the nature of the soul, the possibility of spiritual liberations, or even the union of our divine. This is very important for the student to understand that we need to recognize that there are 2 important dimensions of religion, the material and the spiritual ○ These dimensions of religions are considered influuential to one another ○ The material serves as the vehicle for expressing and nurturing our spiritual beliefs ○ While spiritual gives meaning , purpose, and depth to the material aspect of our religious life We can say that religion is a kind of socio-cultural system that incalcate values behavior and practices and makes humanity truly responsible and accountable steward not only of his self not only of his family but also of the Advent community. This dimension of religion refers to the inner and subjective aspects of religious belief and experience ○ It is the relationship of the person with the divine ○ Relationship of the person to the God, and how that relationship transformed you as a person and how it played a role in our lives ○ Is very subjective ○ Something that speaks to the physical level with God and religion Between you and God Involves personal dimension of faith, including’s one’s beliefs, values, experiences, and relationship with the divine or transcendent  17 Focues on the inner transformation and personal growth that individuals seek through their beliefs and practices The following are the key concepts associated with religion: 1. Belief in Supernatural Supernatural: extraordinary power than can cause justice and punishment ○ Is not just about we can do to make our lives morally upright, but also teaches stories about what people can experience if they act otherwise ○ Not just the existence of divine What religion can do to a person and how one can suffer when acted otherwise This is the core of most religions, involving a belief in something beyond the natural world. This can include gods, spirits, or a higher power. Refers to the beings, the realms , or the forces that transcend our natural world. ○ It includes concepts such as the gods goddesses, angels, demons, and other deities This belief in the supernatural forms the very foundation of religious trait which shapes religious practices and rituals 2. Sacred and Profane Sacred: Things considered holy, divine, or set apart from ordinary life. They inspire awe, reverence, and often involve rituals. Profane: Everyday, ordinary things that are not considered sacred Religions often distinguish the worldly and spiritual world between the sacred and the profane Sacred- refers to elements places and rituals or even objects that are considered holy or divine or something that is imbued with spiritual power and significance  18 Profane- Ordinary, mundane or secular aspects of human life These distinctions help define the boundaries between the religious and the non religious sphere that somehow supports the spiritual involvement and the travels of the believers 3. Ritual Acts Formalized, repetitive actions and ceremonies that are normally performed according to well-established religious customs and traditions They involve symbolic structures, prayer, recitations, offerings, and even communial participation Ritual acts are not only things we do normally, but they serve various purpose such as worship, purification, initiations, right of passage and even as a way to express our sense of devotions to our divine They can range from simple prayers to complex ceremonies Activities that are structurally imposed to the followers so they can achieve their sense of spirituality ○ prayer is the basic platform where we can connect with the divine ○ Mass is the highest form of prayer– there you pray for everyone and thing, and you connect with the rest of the community through activities 4. Moral Code Most religions provide guidelines for ethical behavior. Norms, conducts, and standards set forward by the religious organizations that acts as a moral compass ○ When things go south, we look at religion as our northern star– it gives hope Often emphasize virtues like honesty, compassion, and justice ○ Does not promote violence– violence only occurs is people fail to translate and interpret the messages into peace  19 Serves as a guiding tool Includes principles, commandments or even teachings that address their practical issues such as honesty compassions justice and respect for life Religious moral codes are important because they reinforce the cohesions and provides guidance for both personal and communal ethics 5. Religious Texts or Scriptures Is the primary reference and the univresal guidance in walking the life in spirituality Sacred writings that contain the beliefs, stories, and teachings of a religion. They serve as a source of authority and guidance. These texts are believed to be divinely inspired Revealed as sacred and preserved through generations 6. Community Religion is not just an affiliation; people in a church become social networks and your extended family and support groups People are not just there to worship but rather work together that may progressively effects the entire community in which they belong Play a crucial role in the practice and expressions of their respective religion Provide a sense of belongingness, provide fellowship and more importantly provide support to individuals who share common religious belief and values Fosters a sense of identity, belongingness and concept of moral support between and among members 7. Prayer and Meditation  20 Is a structured recital; the ways and means in which people connect and communicate with the divine Is a mean to reach transcendental states (via worship, meditation, and other similar practices) Refers to how we spiritually communicate with the divine ○ How we express gratitude ○ How we seek guidance ○ How we offer devotion Prayer is meditation Both meditation and prayer fascilitates a deeper connection with the divine ○ Also promotes spiritual growth 8. Afterlife and Eschatology Many religions have beliefs about what happens after death. ○ These beliefs can include concepts like heaven, hell, reincarnation, or spiritual rebirth Afterlife is the ultimate end of a person’s life ○ When death claims life, you are judged based on how you lived; the result of the judgment determines if we go to heaven or hell Eschatology refers to the belief of end times and the ultimate destiny of the universe ○ Metaphysical state of everything ○ Eschatology - The end of time/days The belief about afterlife vary widely ○ It includes the concept of heaven and hell, reincarnation, salvation, and even ritual liberation Eschatology is the belief about the end of times and the final judgement  21 RELIGION AS A SOURCE OF IDENTITY AND PRIDE 1. Shared Beliefs and Values Religion provides us with shared beliefs that offer a common framework for the understanding of the world and human existence as well as the fundamental questions of the meaning and purpose of this life Shared belief creates a sense of belonging to a larger community of like-minded individuals who share similar convictions and beliefs 2. Rituals and Practices Plays a significant role in shaping religious identity It fosters a sense of connection to a once-religious heritage and as well as to its community ○ Practices involve traditional passed-down practices, which is important for reinforcing a sense of cultural continuity and identity 3. Cultural and Historical Significance Serve as the heritage identity– which makes them feel pride in who they are and what they are capable of achieving 4. Community and Social Connections Religion frequently serves as a basis for maintaining social connections, order, and helps establish community bonds All these places provides spaces for people to come together, fostering a sense of belongingness and shared purpose Religion helps support networks, social services, and sense of solidarity, which affects a person’s identity and connection with others 5. Resistance and Resilience Communities help to reinforce and strengthen each other Religion has historically played a role in resistance against injustice, oppression, social inequality  22 It provides individuals and communities with a sense of empowerment in the face of adversities Religious teachings promote values of justice, charity, and equality, inspiring all of us to act as agents of positive change ○ It helps us stand against challenges based on our shared religious belief and values RELIGION AND GLOBALIZATION These 2 components interacts with each other in various ways: Globalization affects religion through the following: ○ Globalization contributes to the spread of religion Spread of religious ideas across the world Through migration and diaspora, religion reaches new audiences and gain followers across the world ○ Globalization can lead to Cultural Homogenization Interdependence between countries can lead to sharing of culture– under which is religion that can marginalize local practices ○ Globalization can cause Religious Syncretism Religious Syncretism refers to the blending of different religious traditions and practices Emergence of a hybrid religion as elements of one religion is incorporated into another ○ Globalization can also lead to conflicts with and within Religions May exacerbate conflict due to contrasting ideals and values colliding Religion is a driver of globalization However, at the same time, the resistance to globalization is due to religion ○ Since it cognitively influence how people respond to globalization  23 ○ This is because religion plays an important role on how we realize our individual selves and teaches morality, promoting values, justice, peace, etc Common ground for all religions is that they teach us how to be truly responsible, as becoming a person Hence anything that is religious is precious to politics – since that is what holds them together This is regardless of the developmental status of the country– whether developed or underdeveloped ○ Transformists, conformists, etc., are all influenced by religion However, globalization and religion will complement each other Missionaries democratize people’s access to information and lead to the globalization of a religion ○ When you spread religion, you are not only spreading the gospel but also affecting the different aspects of human life Religion introduced many concepts such as art and even history! ○ Franciscans were the first people who started documenting history ○ By introducing religion, we are introducing a new societal image Example: beliefs were integrated into the Filipino culture due to the Spanish colonization and their goal to spread the 3 G’s: Gods, Gold, and Glory ○ You can’t realize gold and glory without God ○ Initially, the first Filipinos either do not worship gods; if they did, they worshiped paganism or animism Religion forced Filipinos to adapt to Spaniards standards ○ Examples of beliefs: Tiyanak – vampiric creature in Philippine mythology that takes on the form of a toddler or baby Used as a way to promote life and discourage abortion  24 Mananaggal and mangkukulam – people who practiced witchcraft and curses Initially were the babaylan, who were herbalists and naturalists– not necessarily spiritual leaders This was the propaganda by the friars who demonized and destroyed the image of babaylan Aswang – ghosts and creatures who show up at night Since initially filipinos were night hunters: they slept in the morning and stayed awake at night Spaniards made folk-lore in order to instill fear into the Filipinos at night, changing their body clock Tiktik – creatures that come out by ala sais Filipinos were just dwellers – we didn’t have the concept of houses and settlements Religion taught the first Filipinos to adapt to the concept of settlement, requiring first the concept of structure Tatoos: used to symbolize bravery, how many people they have killed, and symbolize being fierce Nowadays tattoos are a fashion thing ○ They also changed the “history” Filipinos traded with people as far as the Mexico and China and Magellan wasn’t the first person to meet Filipinos Magellan was aware of the Philippines, but when he went to Indonesia for spices, he met resistance and went ot the Philippines instead There were chinese explorers in the Philippines before Magellan GLOBALIZATION IN SHAPING WORLD RELIGION How Globalization Shaped World Religion  25 Spread and Accessibility Globalization ensures religion remains current Made religion more accessible to the community Globalization has facilitated the spread and accessibility of religious beliefs and practices and with the help of improved transportation telecommunications and technologies, it had made it easier for religious teaching to reach a global audience Interreligious Dialogue and Syncretism ○ Globalization increased the interreligious dialogue and encounters ○ There is a greater opportunity for interface dialogue, which led to the emergence of syncretic beliefs and practices ○ Where elements from different religions are blended together and religious syncretism will be a result of what we call cultural exchange, migration, and diaspora in search for a common ground for shared values Challenges to Traditional Practices With the help of tech, globalization spread globalization to modern-day life Globalization with all the technologies and democratic conditions has posted challenges to traditional religious practice. As we the global societies are being more connected to one another exposuure to different cultural and religious perspective can literally lead to the questioning and reevaluation of traditional practices. Religious fundamentalism and identity ○ Globalization triggered religious fundamentalism and sometimes identity-based movement ○ So in response to a perceived threat to their religiouus belief practices some individals and communities have become more authoritative in asserting and defending their religious identity  26 ○ This can lead to a rigid adherence to traditional interpretation resistance to change and even conflict with other religious groups or secular forces Impact on religious institution Globalization had a significant impact both religious believers and their institutions WHY IS RELIGION PARADOXICALLY BECOMING A SOURCE OF CONFLICT? Religion doesn’t promote conflict or cause people to do injustice and suffering to others Inability to truly manifest and learn from their teachings of their religion is what causes religious uncertainties, differences, and misunderstanding ○ All of these lead to conflict ○ Global institutions have adapted to the changing global landscape by utilizing modern technologies for outreach communication and fundraising. ○ Globalization also increases the mobility of religious leaders which in effect facilitates the establishment of transnational religious networks and organization ○ However religious institution also faces challenges particularly in maintaining the relevance their authority in the face of diverse religious and secular influuence. FACTORS ATTRIBUTED TO RELIGION AND CONFLICT 1. Religious Identity When religious identity becomes a primary marker of self, it can creat an “Us vs. Them” mentality ○ Foster divisions and cause conflict between other religious communities 2. Doctrinal Differences Disagreement in interpretation, rituals, and disagreement over religious doctrine can create tensions and conflict ○ Belief and claims of Religious superiorty can lead to clashes between and among religious groups The inabilty of people to accept and respect differences in doctrinal diversity  27 3. Competition for Resources and Power Religion can be entangled with social, political, and economic factors Conflict may arise when religious groups fight for SCARE (or scarce but I really hear scare) resources, political inflience, and societal power It is not religion, but power struggles can exacerbate religious tensions 4. Political Instrumentalization of Religion Political actors manipulate religion to advance their own political agenda How leaders exploit religious symbols, sentiments, and division to mobilize their followers to incite conflict and consolidate power This leads to social and political instability of the state 5. Historical and Cultural Context Historical grievances, colonial legacies, and cultural practices can intercept with religious differences ○ Amplify tension, triggering conflict Deep-rooted social and cultural dynamics combined with religious disparities can fuel hostility and violence 6. Socio-economic Factors Socio-economic disparities and marginalization can intercept with religious identity, leading to conflict ○ Economic inequality, lack of opportunities, and social exclusion can create fertile ground for religiously motivated grievance and radicalization 7. Geopolitical Factors Conflicts involving religion can also be influenced by geopolitical interest Religion can be used as a tool to mobilize support in an international conflict or to justify their military intervention simply Geopolitical rivalries and power struggle can exploit religious fall-flags, which in affect exacerbate conflicts  28 ASSOCIATED PARADIGMS SECULARISM PARADIGM Belief that religion would lose its significance because of economic development and modernization ○ Religion’s influence on the society is gradually declining as societies become more modernized Characterized by the separation of Religion and state Filipinos fought for the secularization of parishes, having locals control them ○ Modernity poses challenges to religion and alienates us from religion Since as society becomes developed and becomes more fixated in the realm of science and technology, the world becomes less religious People are more focused on empowerment rather than dependency on faith ○ People would rather to be in control of their lives– and this affects the religious way of life ○ When things are okay, people tend to be less and less religious and ince we only remember religion when we have problems Factors attributed: 1. Decline of Religious Authority As societies progress and religious authority diminishes, scientific advancement and the spread of secular values lead to the decline in religious adherens, erosion of religious institution, and its social significance As people become too fascinated with philosophies and fragmentism, it pushes people to go beyond the acceptable norms of conduct set by religion Conservatism is alienated by modernity Failure to translate teachings into practical and real situations  29 Not just the preachers, the leaders, but also the institution since when the institution fails = beliefs fails Creates a crisis in the morality compass Developing countries are more religious than developed countries Philippines top religious saints = the suffering saints Indicative of state of depravity 2. Privatization of Religion Religion becomes increasingly confined to the private sphere of individual belief and practice Public sphere is secular, where decisions related to politics, governance, economics, and public policies should be based on secular principles rather than religious doctrines ○ Some people see religion as detrimental to the prosperity for the community You don't let the traditional institution govern your religious activity Doesn't necessarily speak of religion; but how we are totally in control of our religion 3. Rise of Secular Institution Factors that emphasize the rise of secular institutions and the progressive diminishing influence of religious institutions in public affairs Governance, law making, and policy making should be based on secular principles that promote equality, basic human rights, and democratic values 4. Individualization of Religious Beliefs Religious belief is now being seen as an individual choice Religious belief is becoming even more diverse and fragmented with individuals starting to adapt personalized beliefs and practices  30 People don’t adhere to the traditional religious institutions and dogmas The spread of many beliefs such as Christianity, Hindu, etc. Atheists and agnostics Tailor fit the belief of God to fit what you want Become religious based on personal convenience and transactional religion (ie. only praying if things go south or you need something) Not for the sake of sustaining human relationships Theorists: Auguste Comte Trial of scientific world view; Religious belief would eventually be superseded by a scientific worldview Modernity does not affect your spiritual status (I.e. Because of academics, students have less time to attend the daily mass) From the context of religion, societies go through three stages of development: Theological - Religious explanations dominate Metaphysical - Transition stage between Theological and Positivity Positive Stage - Characterized by the focus of science and reason Developed the concept of positivism: the focus on science and reason Religion would eventually diminish its importance as positivism becomes the dominant world view Leads to secularization of society Max Weber Religion played a significant role in the development of modern capitalism Protestantism played a crucial role in the emergence of capitalism  31 ○ Protestantism - Branch of Christianity that emphasizes justification of sinners through faith ○ This provides a system and procedure that completes the growth and development of the modern state ○ As religion manifests the idea of labor exploitation: Believes that class system is good as it gives order to the society A tool of capitalism for growth and development– hence less and less religious Overtime religion lost its influence on economic and social life As societies modernize and rationalize, religious belief and practices becomes less and less significant, resulting to secularization of Religion Emile Durkheim Religion played a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion and solidarity, but as society became more complex, traditional religious beliefs is replaced by a shared belief in society itself. Recall: Religion serves as a collective representation of the society's values and belief Plays a crucial role in maintaining social cohesion; but religious beliefs are replaced by societal beliefs ○ As society becomes more complex and individualistic, traditional religious belief and practices will eventually decline ○ New forms of collective rituals and belief will emerge to fill the integrative functions that was previously performed by traditional religion ○ Marginalizes the potential things, learning, and experiences that people can give to us ○ E.g., use of AI to interpret gospels alienates us from religious experiences such as attending church  32 Karl Marx Envisioned a future communist society in which religion would naturally disappear as the material conditions for its existence changed Religion is primarily a reflection of social and economic conditions He argued that Religion served to distract the working class from exploitation by the capital class ○ Religion is primarily a reflection of social and economic conditions Poorer country = more religious ○ Religion was a social opium that was a weapon of mass distraction As class consciousness grows and social relations transform, religion will lose its significance, leading to its disappearance Considered religious secularization as a natural product of a broader social transformation, rather than an inherent consequence of modernity Religion promotes class system and normalizes exploitation and moral slavery RESURGENCE PARADIGM It challenges the notion of secularization and argues that religion will not diminish ○ Religion will persist, but it is just experiencing a resurgence and increased public disability will eventually make religion current Factors Attributed to Resurgence Paradigm: 1. Revival and increased significance in the modern world Emphasizes the revival and strengthening of religious identity Globalization, migration, and social changes that happen around the world led to new emphasis on religious belief and practices as individuals across the globe seek a sense of belongingess and meaning  33 There is a search for cultural preservation and continuity 2. Role of Religion in Public Life The resurgence paradigm highlights the reemergence of religious institutions, religious leaders' involvement in politics and social activism, as well as the influence of religious values and ethics 3. Religious Pluarlism Acknowledges the co-existence of multiple religions and the increasing diversity and inclusivity of religious practices There is a need for interfaith dialogue and cooperation There should be interreligious freedom dialogue and cooperation 4. Challenges to Secularism Dominance of secularisms becomes prevalent Religious perspective should be included in public discourse, public policy making There is an emphasis to a more inclusive and pluralistic approach to public welfare Theorists: Jan Art Scholte Globalization has not led to the decline of religion; instead, it has created new opportunities for religious movements Explores the relationship of globalisation and religious movement Globalization and religion can lead to tension as religious groups encounter cultural clashes, secular influences, and erosion of traditional practices Amartya Sen Emphasizes that religion continues to play a significant role in people's lives and identities Contends that religion can serve as a source of values, social cohesion, and ethical guidance  34 We may be too fixated on the material dimension of religion Examined the relationship between globalisation and religious preservation from the perspective of social justice and identity Globalisation can exacerbate identity-based conflict Samual Suggests that religion has experienced a revival and oncreased Huntington significance in the modern world It will find its own ways of becoming modern again, aligning with modern society Religion is one of the primary sources of identity and conflict, especially in the post cold war era As globalization intensifies, and different civilizations come into contact, religious identities become more resiliant and plays a significant role in shaping conflicts and the vision between different cultures and civilization Azzouzi reaffirms and supplements the suggestion of Huntington Religion is very resilient Additional People/Info Azzouzi Reaffirms the clash of civilization thesis and argues the revival and resurgence of religion as a consequence of globalization Religion acts as a resistance against the adverse effects of globalization (e.g., Islam) Globalization and its defining features of hybridization of world cultures and world religions failed to be actualized and have even strengthened religious identities that can’t intermingle or hybridize (e.g., Islam and Christianity) While anti-rationalism can be ascribed to religions, this would refer to the characteristics of extremist and fundamentalist religions Scholte Refers to religious revivalism as an anti-rationalist faith His argument is in opposition to both Thomas and Azzouzi Post-modern perspective: “multicultural, international  35 society reflecting religious pluralism in pursuit of multiple modernities” Thomas Cautions that it may be very misleading to see the global resurgence of religion as the “clash of civilizations”, “fundamentalism”, or “extremism” Resurgence of Religion based on the “Political Mythology of Liberal Modernity” Amartya Sen Inadequate recognition of Samuel Huntington of the diversity with cultures Norris and Inglehart Religion would be raised on an international agenda CHANGES BROUGHT BY THE INTERNET TO RELIGION 1. Access to Information Internet has made a vast amount of information accesible by people wherever they are Scriptures, religious texts, etc., are all availble online Allows individuals to have democratic access to information, allowing people to explore and deepen their understanding of their own faith ○ Sometimes even learn about other religions Empowered individuals to engage in religious teachings independentl, bypassing the traditional heirchal structures of religious authority ○ There is a more progressive understanding and awareness of religious diversity 2. Online Worship and Services Internet enables virtual worship experience and religious services This has expanded access to religious practices, allowing indivudals to engage in communal worship even if their physical attendance is not possible 3. Online Religious Communities  36 Online platforms provided spaces for religious dialogue support and experiences, fostering a sense of religious community beyond the traditional physical value 4. Religious Education and E-Learning Internet has revolutionized religious education There is an engagement of religious learning Democratizes the access of religious information, making it more flexible and personalized 5. Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding With internet, interfaith fialogue becomes very responsive ○ There is greater understanding between different religions Internet can relieve religious tensions and promote religious pluralism by allowing individuals to have omnibus access to religious texts, teachings, beliefs, and practices 6. Challenges to Traditional Authority Internet challenges traditional authority because it provides indivudals to to access and express diverse religious views and criticism on established religous institution and practices Democratization of information and the ability to connect with alternative religious voices has led to the ever-increasing of quest for exploration and reinterpretation of religious belief 7. Religious Extremism and Radicalization Internet has facilitated the spread of extremist, ideologist, and radicalization of individuals There are online platforms that have been used by extremist groups to disseminate propaganda, recruit followers, and coordinate activities ○ Poses new challenges in how we combat religious extremism and adress online radicalization GEN Z: THE LEAST RELIGIOUS GENERATION  37 1. Secularization and Changing Social Norms Gen Z has come of age during the time of secularization and challenging social norms ○ Traditional beliefs and practices have become less influential in many societies Secular values like individualism, personal autonomy, and skepticism towards religious organizations have contributed to them becoming less religious 2. Access to Information and Critical Thinking Gen Z is exposed to a wide range of perspectives and world views, leading to the increased questioning of religious beliefs and practices ○ There is an ability to fact-check and explore alternative viewpoints, made possible with the internet and globalization 3. Diversity and Pluralism Globalisation has led to a greater emphasis on personal spirituality and individualistic approaches to faith ○ When Gen Z is exposed to diversity, it contributed to a more inclusive and pluralistic mindset We are more accepting of religious and non-religious identity 4. Scandals and Institutional Distrust Gen Z has witnessed numerous scandals and controversies regarding religious institutions and its leaders ○ This led many young people to distance themselves from religious organizations since they lack moral integrity 5. Focus on Social Justice and Activism Gen Z is motivated by a desire to address societal inequalities and promote inclusivity, fighting for human rights  38 ○ Some religious traditions align with these values, but others may promote exclusionary and discriminatory beliefs, leading young people to reject and question religious teachings 6. Individualism and Personal Autonomy Gen Z values personal autonomy and the freedom to make their own choices ○ Includes religious beliefs and practices ○ Prioritize self-expression, personal growth, and subjective experiences over adherence to traditional religious traditions or dogmas Emphasis on individualism can lead to a decline in religious affiliations and participation