Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The phenomenon of globalization has significantly impacted various aspects of society, including traditional religious practices and beliefs. This thesis aims to explore the multifaceted effects of globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs, with a focus on understanding how globalization has influenced the transmission, adaptation, and preservation of these practices and beliefs in the modern world. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, this study examines the key factors driving the globalization of religious practices, the challenges posed by globalization to traditional religious systems, and the strategies employed by religious communities to navigate and respond to these challenges. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. The chapter sets the stage for the subsequent chapters by establishing the rationale and context for the study. Chapter Two presents a detailed literature review that critically analyzes existing research on the impact of globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs. The chapter explores ten key themes, including the cultural homogenization vs. cultural diversity debate, the role of technology in the dissemination of religious ideas, and the concept of glocalization in the context of religious expression. Chapter Three delves into the research methodology employed in this study, outlining the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the research methodology. Chapter Four presents an in-depth discussion of the research findings, highlighting the various ways in which globalization has influenced traditional religious practices and beliefs. The chapter examines case studies from different religious traditions to illustrate the diverse responses of religious communities to the challenges posed by globalization. Chapter Five offers a comprehensive conclusion and summary of the thesis, drawing together the key findings and insights derived from the study. The chapter reflects on the implications of the research findings for understanding the complex interplay between globalization and traditional religious systems and suggests avenues for future research in this field. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the ongoing discourse on the impact of globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs by providing a nuanced analysis of the dynamics at play in the contemporary religious landscape. By shedding light on the ways in which globalization shapes and reshapes religious traditions, this study offers valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing globalized world.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Traditional Religious Practices and Beliefs" aims to investigate the profound effects of globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs worldwide. Globalization, characterized by increased interconnectedness and interdependence among nations, has brought about significant transformations in various spheres of life, including religion. This study seeks to shed light on how the forces of globalization have influenced and reshaped traditional religious practices and beliefs in diverse cultural contexts. The project will delve into the multifaceted nature of globalization and its impact on religious traditions, rituals, and worldviews. It will explore how the rapid spread of information, technology, and cultural exchange facilitated by globalization has led to the dissemination of diverse religious ideologies and practices across borders. Furthermore, the research will examine the challenges and opportunities that globalization presents for traditional religious institutions and their adherents in adapting to an increasingly interconnected world. By conducting a comprehensive literature review, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the ways in which globalization has both revitalized and threatened traditional religious practices and beliefs. It will analyze case studies from different regions to highlight the diverse responses of religious communities to the processes of globalization, ranging from cultural hybridity and syncretism to resistance and fundamentalism. The research methodology will involve a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches, including interviews, surveys, and content analysis, to gather data on the experiences and perceptions of individuals and communities affected by the globalization of religion. Through this empirical research, the project seeks to identify patterns and trends in how globalization has shaped religious identities, practices, and values in contemporary societies. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the existing scholarship on globalization and religion by offering insights into the complex dynamics at play in the intersection of global forces and traditional religious worldviews. By examining the impact of globalization on traditional religious practices and beliefs, this research aims to enrich our understanding of the evolving nature of religion in an interconnected world and provide valuable perspectives for policymakers, scholars, and practitioners working in the fields of religious and cultural studies.