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Read the article below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2017 - Paper 2
Question 1
Read the article below and answer the questions that follow. WORKERS CLAIM RELIGIOUS DISCRIMINATION Employees at a freight company in Durban have stopped work, cla... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the article below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 1 - 2017 - Paper 2
Step 1
Explain how discrimination has negatively affected religions in South Africa.
Answer
Discrimination has fundamentally divided South African society by enforcing racial segregation, particularly during apartheid. Each racial group faced barriers that prevented them from fully engaging with and understanding diverse cultures and religions. For example, religions were not treated equally; the dominant Dutch Reformed Church was favored, leading to the suppression of other faiths.
This ongoing marginalization continues to affect social cohesion as communities are still struggling to establish their places of worship and coexist harmoniously.
Step 2
Religions have many teachings that denounce discrimination. With reference to any ONE religion, elaborate on such teachings.
Answer
Taking Christianity as an example, its core teachings promote love and acceptance for all. Jesus specifically instructs followers to love one another, as seen in John 13:34. The principle of equality is emphasized in Galatians 3:28, highlighting that all humans are equal in Christ. This promotes a standpoint against discrimination based on race, gender, or socio-economic status, thereby fostering inclusivity.
Step 3
Discuss practical strategies that religious communities can use to overcome the problem of discrimination.
Answer
Religious communities can implement several strategies to counteract discrimination, including:
- Education and Awareness: Establish educational programs that promote understanding of different faiths and cultures.
- Interfaith Dialogue: Foster discussions between various religious groups to build mutual respect.
- Community Engagement: Participate in joint community service projects to promote goodwill and cooperation.
- Leadership Initiatives: Encourage religious leaders to advocate against discrimination and promote inclusivity within their communities.
Step 4
In your opinion, is there less discrimination in South Africa today than there was in the past? Give reasons to support your answer.
Answer
There has been notable progress in reducing discrimination in South Africa since the end of apartheid. The Constitution enshrines equality and the freedom of religion, allowing diverse groups to express their beliefs without fear of repression. However, challenges remain; for instance, racial and religious discrimination can still be observed in various spheres, such as workplaces and religious institutions. Thus, while strides have been made, certain inequalities continue to persist.