Case Study Sri Lanka and Indonesia
Role of Religion in Shaping Social and Cultural Life
- Religion played a central role in shaping identity, cultural values and community life across Asia during this period.
- Religious institutions influenced education and moral beliefs in many societies.
- Festivals reinforced social cohesion and cultural continuity across generations.
- Religious organizations expanded their humanitarian work in health and welfare.
- Faith traditions shaped community norms, especially in rural regions.
- Modernization prompted debates about maintaining religious traditions in urban settings.
Buddhism and Social Identity in Sri Lanka (1980–2005)
Social Role and Influence
- Buddhism shaped national identity and public culture after independence.
- Monks played active roles in political mobilization and public debate.
- Religious schools reinforced moral teaching alongside academic subjects.
- Temples provided community support and charitable services.
- Buddhist values influenced social attitudes toward governance and justice.
Consequences and Patterns
- Strong Buddhist identity contributed to majority confidence but also tension.
- Cultural nationalism reinforced ethnic boundaries between groups.
- Political leaders often appealed to Buddhist sentiment to gain support.
- Religious influence shaped national priorities in education and welfare.
- The centrality of Buddhism shaped long-term national narratives.
Definition
Religious identity
Sense of belonging shaped by shared beliefs and practices
Definition
Cultural continuity
Preservation of traditions across generations.
Religious Conflict, Tensions and Political Mobilization
- Religious divisions influenced political conflict, ethnic tensions and struggles for power across parts of Asia.
- Competing religious identities fueled social polarization in several states.
- Politicians sometimes used religion to gain public support or legitimacy.
- Religious minorities faced discrimination or limited rights in some regions.
