Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis examines the impact of social media on religious beliefs and practices in contemporary society. The rapid advancement and widespread use of social media platforms have transformed the way individuals interact with religion, religious institutions, and religious communities. This study aims to explore the various ways in which social media influences religious beliefs and practices, both positively and negatively. The research is guided by the following objectives to investigate how social media shapes religious beliefs, to evaluate the role of social media in religious practices, and to analyze the implications of social media on religious communities. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, the problem statement, research objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter 2 consists of a comprehensive literature review that examines existing research on the relationship between social media and religious beliefs and practices. The review covers various aspects such as the impact of social media on religious communication, community building, religious authority, and religious identity. Chapter 3 outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sampling techniques, data analysis procedures, and ethical considerations. The chapter aims to provide a clear understanding of how the research was conducted and the rationale behind the chosen methodology. Chapter 4 presents a detailed discussion of the research findings, highlighting the key insights and implications of the study. The findings reveal that social media has both positive and negative effects on religious beliefs and practices. While social media platforms offer new opportunities for religious engagement, community building, and outreach, they also present challenges such as information overload, echo chambers, and the spread of misinformation. The study concludes with Chapter 5, which summarizes the key findings, discusses the implications for religious communities, and offers recommendations for future research and practice. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on the impact of social media on religious beliefs and practices. By examining the complex interplay between social media and religion, this study sheds light on the evolving dynamics of religious life in the digital age and provides insights that can inform future research and policy decisions.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Analysis of the Impact of Social Media on Religious Beliefs and Practices" aims to explore the influence of social media on religious beliefs and practices in contemporary society. With the rapid advancement of technology and the widespread use of social media platforms, there has been a noticeable shift in how individuals engage with religion and spirituality. This research seeks to investigate the various ways in which social media platforms shape, challenge, and transform religious beliefs and practices among different communities. The study will begin by providing an overview of the current landscape of social media usage in relation to religious activities. It will delve into the ways in which individuals interact with religious content online, the impact of social media on religious communities and organizations, and the role of digital platforms in shaping religious identities. Furthermore, the research will examine the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media on religious beliefs and practices. It will explore how social media can facilitate greater connectivity and engagement within religious communities, as well as how it may lead to the dissemination of misinformation or the dilution of traditional religious teachings. Through a comprehensive literature review, the project will analyze existing studies and theories related to the intersection of social media and religion. It will also highlight key findings and gaps in the current research landscape, setting the stage for the empirical investigation that follows. The research methodology will involve a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from a diverse range of participants. By engaging with individuals from various religious backgrounds and levels of social media usage, the study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how social media influences religious beliefs and practices across different demographics. The findings of this research are expected to contribute valuable insights to the fields of Religious Studies, Communication Studies, and Digital Media. The project will shed light on the evolving relationship between technology and religion, offering implications for religious leaders, scholars, and practitioners seeking to navigate the digital landscape in a thoughtful and informed manner. In conclusion, the project "Analysis of the Impact of Social Media on Religious Beliefs and Practices" seeks to deepen our understanding of the complex dynamics at play when technology intersects with matters of faith and spirituality. By exploring the multifaceted ways in which social media shapes religious experiences, this research aims to stimulate critical dialogue and reflection on the role of digital platforms in shaping contemporary religious landscapes.