Discuss the importance of religion in the society today

With science and technology getting more advanced, more people, especially the younger generation, choose to worship the wonderments of technologies rather than Gods. As such, the importance of religion in today’s society has begun to pale. However, this does not mean that religion does not have a stand in society today. Religion plays important roles of teaching us moral values and governing people’s thoughts and beliefs. Hence, we still cannot neglect the importance of religion in our society today.

Firstly, religion is important for nation building and individual development. It teaches us moral values, to change the way we live in the world, not for our own sake but for the sake of others. Buddhism, for example, teaches us morality, abstaining from unwholesome deeds of body and speech. Likewise, Christianity teaches atonement, to repent one’s sin. Hence, religion helps us to clarify ethical and moral issues, especially in today’s fast changing world where we need something concrete to hold. Therefore, religion is important in incorporating human good in our society as the society progresses.

Secondly, religion is important as it wields a powerful influence over people’s life. As Karl Marx says, “religion is the opiate of the masses”. Religion plays a role of governing people’s taught and belief, helping people to seek solace and to reflect on the meaning of life. Hence, since religion is usually a reflection of one’s belief and therefore, people are willing to go all the way out to protect their religion. Evidence can be seen from past divisions caused by differences in religion, one of which is the Maria Hertogh riots of 1950 in Singapore. It was sparked by a court decision to return custody of Maria, then aged 13, to her biological Catholic Dutch mother after she had been raised as a Muslim by her adoptive Malay mother. Although it happened long ago, it is because that Singapore has kept in mind such a painful lesson that we have managed to maintain peace in today’s society. As such, religion still cannot be neglected from today’s society.

In conclusion, we cannot neglect religion as it plays a very important role in ensuring human good and has a strong influence over people’s lives.