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Read the article below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 3
Read the article below and answer the questions that follow. MEDIA PORTRAYALS OF RELIGION IN SOUTH AFRICA South Africa is a culturally diverse country that is home... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Read the article below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Religion Studies - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Do you agree that 'religions are not always equally represented in the media' in South Africa? Give reasons and use suitable examples to illustrate your answer.
Answer
Yes, there is a discrepancy in how religions are represented in the media in South Africa. The coverage differs in terms of time and quality. For instance, Christianity often receives more airtime and focus compared to minority religions like Jainism or Taoism, which are frequently overlooked.
Some religions, such as Islam, receive selective coverage, particularly during violent events, which can skew perceptions. Additionally, while Buddhism tends to be portrayed positively, as seen with the Dalai Lama, this is not the case for all religions. Overall, major religions dominate the media landscape, leaving minority religions underrepresented.
Step 2
Discuss possible factors that may cause the media to be biased against reporting religious issues.
Answer
Several factors contribute to media bias in reporting religious issues. Political dynamics often play a role, as religion is a contentious topic in society, leading to polarized views.
The media also tends to thrive on sensationalism, which influences how stories are framed. This can lead to biased narratives that reflect ignorance or misunderstanding of religious practices. Furthermore, inadequate representation of certain faiths in the industry can perpetuate stereotypes, thereby affecting the overall quality of coverage.
Step 3
Discuss the positive and negative effects of the Internet on religion.
Answer
The Internet has both positive and negative effects on religion. On the positive side, it enables individuals to access a wealth of information about religious teachings, communities, and events. People can participate in podcasts and online seminars, which facilitate greater understanding and interaction.
Conversely, the anonymity of online platforms can lead to misinformation, as anyone can post comments that may misrepresent religious beliefs. This often results in harmful stereotypes or divisive opinions that can adversely affect religious gatherings and communities.