Learning about World Religions in Public Schools (Essay Sample)

Learning about World Religions in Public Schools
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Learning about World Religions in Public Schools
The significance of religion to social norms, ethics, political philosophy, world literature and other disciplines makes it an indispensable component of the liberal curriculum. A world religion is an entity with a global following which is not limited to members of a given culture, society or nation (Thomas, 2006). They include Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Manichaean religion, and Judaism. Societies in the world cannot be properly understood without giving consideration to their beliefs and values. In recent times, there has been a growing diversity that threatens to challenge the systems of government. Public schools still continue to be a blistering bed of religious debate. While some schools include lessons of world religions in subjects like Ethics and Political Philosophy, other schools require that students take extended and independent classes on world religions. There are many of concerns that make it crucial to teach about world religions in public schools.
Ideally, learning about world religions in public schools is extremely crucial. Even so, a lot of emphasis should be placed by curriculum developers on the difference between teaching about world religion in public schools and teaching religion in public schools. I contend that students should learn about religions of the world in public schools. When they do so, they develop a culture of understanding and respect for religious diversities and freedom. Essentially, this is critical in helping students to overcome fear and bigotry. It also makes them advance towards a greater civilization. As Thomas (2006) admits, such lessons help students to accommodate views, values, and opinions from other religions.
Davidson (2005) contends that learning about world religions also equips students with vital skills such as creative thinking, intercultural literacy, and other interpersonal skills that are critical in the world of today. In the light of the differing opinions concerning world religions, learning about these religions is crucial in advocating for efforts towards tolerance and better appreciation of diversity. Admittedly, this also helps in nurturing students towards a better understanding of the history of the world religions as well as issues that influence human div...