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In several recent studies of religious coverage in the media, it was found that coverage had increased significantly over the last decade - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 4
In several recent studies of religious coverage in the media, it was found that coverage had increased significantly over the last decade. However, the coverage was ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In several recent studies of religious coverage in the media, it was found that coverage had increased significantly over the last decade - NSC Religion Studies - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Do you think the media gives fair coverage to religious issues?
Answer
Yes, there are instances where the media provides balanced coverage of different religions, ensuring all viewpoints are represented. In South Africa, for example, programs like "Issues of Faith" aim to highlight diverse perspectives. However, negative coverage often dominates, highlighting misconduct and controversies within religions.
Step 2
Give reasons for your answer to QUESTION 4.1. Include ONE example to support your answer.
Answer
While some media outlets strive for balanced coverage, research indicates that overall, negative perceptions prevail, particularly concerning the Catholic Church. The media tends to prioritize sensationalist stories, often overlooking positive contributions of religious institutions. For instance, when covering issues like sexual abuse by priests, the media focuses on the scandals rather than on the broader social contributions made by these religious organizations.
Step 3
Why, do you think, media coverage of religious issues increased sharply?
Answer
The increase in media coverage of religious issues can be attributed to heightened global conflicts involving religion, such as wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Religious perspectives on social and political matters are frequently highlighted, often in sensationalist contexts, prompting broader public interest and engagement.
Step 4
Discuss ONE example from the media that refers to the political elements of religion.
Answer
An example can be seen in the civil conflict in Nigeria, where media coverage often portrays the ongoing struggle between Muslims and Christians. Reports frequently explore how politics intertwine with religion, highlighting the fear among Muslims regarding the imposition of Sharia law and the Christian community's concerns over potential domination by Islamic governance.
Step 5
Discuss ONE example from the media that refers to issues involving sexual morality and religion.
Answer
One pertinent example is homosexuality and the Catholic Church's stance on it. The Catholic Church has faced considerable media scrutiny for its rigid views against homosexuality. Coverage in the media often contrasts the Church's teachings with public protests advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, thereby exposing the ongoing tensions between institutional religious beliefs and modern societal values.
Step 6
Discuss ONE example from media that refers to issues involving women (or minorities) in religion.
Answer
Media narratives often focus on the struggles faced by women in various religious contexts. For instance, polygamy within certain African Traditional Religions often receives media attention, highlighting the abuse faced by women in these arrangements. Reports not only address the cultural practices but also advocate for women's rights and challenge the traditional norms that permit such practices.