Welcome to GlobalPlus, a new monthly feature of the Association of Religion Data Archives designed to increase understanding on critical issues in international religion. Each GlobalPlus will examine a key topic in the news and provide an overview from leading international journalists and scholars along with relevant data and links to articles, books and other resources.
GlobalPlus lifts up the voices and contributions of international scholars, researchers and writers to promote accurate, balanced reporting on religion enriched by the diverse, high-quality data being produced throughout the world.
That is our goal at ARDA, increasing understanding by democratizing access to the best data and measures on religion.
Human beings may be hard-wired since evolution to separate into tribes in response to fear and uncertainty. But science also shows we are capable of working together for the common good when we leave our tribal cocoons and get to know our neighbors in ways that promote understanding. It starts with listening to one another.
Fashion is often viewed as frivolous. But the rise of modest fashion shows another side of the industry, the ability of a major social and economic engine to influence cultural change. Today, stylish women of many faiths that encourage modesty have embraced coverings or other relevant adaptions of dress and behavior as signs of fashion and faith. In so doing, this largely women-led movement is breaking down legal and social barriers to religious freedom. Movement luminaries also are engaging the world’s leading religions with the rights of women to interpret religious texts and religious practices in everyday life in ways informed by their own conscience and authority.
Humor can be offensive and divisive, especially jokes about sensitive issues, such as race and religion. But research is showing religious humor also can have a big upside, one that can help us move past religious stereotypes that divide communities, nations and regions. If humor works, then a key question becomes: Will we choose to laugh together?
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