International human rights legislation has long recognized the freedom of religion as a basic human right. It is a pillar of contemporary democracies and a key component of personal freedom. Despite this, the idea of freedom of religion is nuanced and debatable because various religious ideas and practices could oppose one another. As communities become increasingly varied and interdependent, the discussion over religious freedom has continued for centuries. This essay will argue that religious freedom is a fundamental human right that must be upheld by law and society because it fosters diversity and pluralism, allows people to express their most profound beliefs, and advances democratic societies. Despite the likelihood of disagreement and controversy, safeguarding this freedom is essential for protecting individual liberties and fostering mutual respect and tolerance among diverse groups.
To foster diversity and plurality in civilizations, freedom of religion is essential. It enables people of all origins and cultures to express and practice their religious beliefs without worrying about discrimination or persecution (Marshall, 14). Societies can develop a hospitable environment for diverse groups, promoting greater social cohesiveness and tolerance by defending the right to freedom of religion. By enabling communication and mutual understanding between other religions, freedom of religion helps to preserve diversity and pluralism. People are more likely to participate in talks and activities that advance interfaith understanding and respect when they are free to practice their religion. As a result, there may be a rise in the acceptance of other religious practices and beliefs, and barriers between various communities may be reduced. Furthermore, when people are free to express their opinions openly, it contributes to developing a more accepting and tolerant society in which individuals are appreciated for who they are rather than according to their religion or culture.
Freedom of religion also promotes diversity and pluralism by allowing people to engage freely in public life. People are more likely to participate in social and cultural activities that are significant to their religion when they are allowed to practice their religion freely (Marshall, 14). This promotes increased involvement in civic affairs and guarantees that many communities are heard. Societies can foster an atmosphere where people can be themselves and participate fully in community life regardless of their religious views or practices by defending the right to freedom of religion. The result is a more diverse and pluralistic society in which people are appreciated for their differences as opposed to being shunned or ostracized.
People’s lives are frequently dominated by religion, which offers a framework for understanding the world and directs their ethical and moral convictions (Marshall, 9). Societies may guarantee that people can express their most deeply held views and ideals without fear of retaliation or discrimination by defending the right to freedom of religion. Allowing individuals to follow their religion freely allows them to express their deepest convictions. For many people, religion is a way of life that entails regular activities, rituals, and a set of beliefs. Societies may make sure that people can express their core values and beliefs concretely by allowing religious freedom for everyone (Marshall, 9). In addition to improving people’s personal well-being, this fosters a more diverse and pluralistic society where individuals are free to adhere to their own personal views and practices.
By defending their right to have and express their ideas, even if those beliefs are unpopular or divisive, people are also allowed to express their deepest convictions. Those with religious convictions that differ from those of the majority or the government frequently experience persecution or discrimination. Societies may guarantee that people can express their beliefs without fear of retaliation and that they can participate in conversations and debates about significant societal issues by defending the right to freedom of religion (Marshall, 7). This makes it possible for a more democratic and open society in which everyone can express their opinions and participate in healthy debates, regardless of whether others do not share such opinions.
Due to its significance in the growth of democratic institutions, norms, and principles, freedom of religion is essential to advancing democratic societies. Societies can foster an atmosphere where people are free to express their opinions and beliefs, participate in public life, and have productive conversations and debates by defending the right to freedom of religion. As a result, a society that values diversity and encourages respect for individual differences is made more open, inclusive, and democratic. Respect for human rights and the rule of law is one way that religious freedom contributes to advancing democratic society (Marshall, 7). In a democratic society, people’s rights are upheld, and the government is answerable to them. By defending the right to freedom of religion, societies can guarantee that people can enjoy their rights and freedoms without fear of retaliation or discrimination. This fosters a culture of respect for legality and human rights, both of which are necessary for the growth of a democratic society.
By encouraging tolerance, comprehension, and social cohesion, religious freedom also strengthens democratic nations (Marshall, 7). Diverse viewpoints and opinions are respected in a democratic society, and people are urged to have productive conversations and debates. Societies may foster an atmosphere where people are free to express their opinions and ideas and where various religious communities can live peacefully by defending the right to freedom of religion. This fosters social solidarity, tolerance, and understanding, all of which are crucial for the growth of a democratic society.
Despite the fact that the right to freedom of religion is seen as a basic human right, there are various arguments against it. The spread of bad and hazardous beliefs is one of the most frequently used defenses against religious freedom. For instance, religious views that encourage violence, intolerance, or prejudice may be detrimental to both individuals and society as a whole. Furthermore, some religious doctrines may be at odds with scientific truth, which can fuel the propagation of false information and disrespect for reality. This can be especially worrying in fields like healthcare, where adherence to one’s religious views may cause one to forego life-saving medical care (London & Siddiqi, para 7).
The possibility that religious freedom could compromise secularism and the separation of church and state is another argument against it (Marshall, 4). When religious beliefs receive preferential treatment or benefits, this can give some religious organizations an unfair advantage and result in prejudice toward people who do not hold the same beliefs. It can also result in the imposition of religious beliefs on the general populace, regardless of their personal beliefs or values, when religion influences political decisions or policies (London & Siddiqi, para 5). This can be especially difficult in countries with various religions or beliefs.
A further argument for religious freedom is that it can prevent social integration and cohesion (London & Siddiqi, para 2). When religious ideas are given excessive weight or influence, it may result in the separation of various religious communities and a consequent lack of communication and understanding. Religious convictions can occasionally result in rejecting more general societal norms and values, leading to alienation and disengagement from the larger society (London & Siddiqi, para 14). This can be especially troublesome in multicultural cultures where people from many backgrounds and beliefs must find peaceful ways to coexist. Finally, some say that freedom of religion might negatively impact individual well-being, particularly for individuals born into strict religious communities or households. When people are not allowed to consider other viewpoints or ask questions about their own, they could feel confined or alone in their religious community. Additionally, some religious customs or viewpoints could be detrimental to people, such as those that encourage self-harm or limit access to healthcare or education. In these situations, it may be necessary to safeguard people from any potential harm that their religious beliefs may cause.
In conclusion, the freedom of religion is a fundamental human right essential to the operation of democracies. It encourages diversity and pluralism, allowing people to express their opinions and ideals, and fosters societal harmony and tolerance. There are, however, arguments against religious freedom, such as worries about disseminating dangerous ideas, undermining secularism, developing hurdles to social integration, and detrimental effects on the well-being of the individual. These worries are legitimate, but that does not mean that religious freedom should be restricted. Instead, society needs to focus on resolving the fundamental reasons behind religious fanaticism and advancing a mindset of tolerance and appreciation for difference. Making sure that people are defined by more than just their religious identity, as well as their shared citizenship and shared values, can help prevent the fragmentation of society.
Works Cited
London, Emily & Siddiqi, Maggie. “Religious Liberty Should Do No Harm.” American Progress (April 11, 2019). https://www.americanprogress.org/article/religious-liberty-no-harm/
Marshall, Jennifer. “Why Does Religious Freedom Matter?” Understanding America. https://archsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/ReligiousFreedom.pdf
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