The Influence of Religion on People - Essay Example

Religion is defined as an organization of principles and customs by means of which a group of people strives with the crucial dilemmas of human life (Crawford, 2002, p. 1). Conversely, it can also be depicted as any convictions which entail the recognition of a revered, trans-empirical domain and any behavior intended to influence a person’s relationship with that domain (Crawford, 2002, p. 1). Likewise, religion is a unified system of beliefs and practices relative to sacred things, beliefs, and practices that merge into one single community called a church and comprising of individuals who adhere to them (Crawford, 2002, p. 2).  Acceptance of all religious stories of faithful followers at face value can lead to confusion among individuals about what they should believe in (Matthews, 2010).

Hence, one should gain an adequate understanding of the different world religions by considering each one fairly (Matthews, 2010). Gaining insight into world religions helped the author of this paper understand the beliefs and practices advocated by the other religions. Moreover, it made the author of this paper value religion more. Likewise, having learned the convictions upheld by the other religions made the author of this paper show appreciation and respect for what the followers of the other religions have faith in.

Attitude is the most distinctive and indispensable concept in contemporary social psychology; on the other hand, beliefs were thought to be associated with behaviors for the reason that they contributed to the formation of attitudes (Petty & Cacioppo, 1996). The author of this paper believes that it is crucial for an individual to learn about other people’s beliefs and attitudes for the reason that it aids one to know how they should act towards another individual and what they should expect from other persons.

If an individual also has an idea of the beliefs and attitudes of someone, it can easily be predicted what kind of interaction they will engage in when dealing with that person. The author of the paper deems that obtaining an understanding of another person’s belief and attitude will help someone be cautious of what and what not to say whenever that person is conversing with the other. It also aids another individual to behave in accordance with that person so as not to trample on his or her principles and values.

The author of this paper presumed that such information gained would be vital in future interactions with a variety of individuals with regards to their religion, beliefs, and attitudes. Moreover, the author also believes that such an understanding of the different concepts would help provide misunderstandings or conflicts in future relations.