Posted: October 6th, 2023

Religion and War: Examining the Complex Relationship

Religion and War: Examining the Complex Relationship
Throughout history, religion and war have shared a complex relationship. On one hand, some argue certain religious doctrines have promoted violence and conflict between groups. However, most major faiths also emphasize peace, love and nonviolence. The reality is nuanced.
In the early 20th century, nationalism and imperial ambitions likely drove the two World Wars more so than religious differences (Johnson, 2017; Tucker, 2018). While some cite biblical passages used to justify wartime actions, religious leaders of various faiths condemned the wars (Elshtain, 2003; Tucker, 2018). Religion became entangled with nationalism, but did not instigate the conflicts.
Post-war, religious pluralism increased in once predominantly Christian nations. Some saw this as a threat to cultural identity, fueling nativism (Foner, 2017). However, most religious communities today promote understanding between faiths (Allen, 2016; Eck, 2021). Overall, research finds religion tends to decrease violence when separated from political power and nationalism (Fox, 2004; Toft et al., 2011).
In summary, while some use religion to promote intolerance, most major faith traditions teach peace. Nationalism and political interests often drive war more directly. Overall, a separation of religion and political power seems to minimize conflict (Eck, 2021; Fox, 2004). More understanding and pluralism within and between faiths also correlates with less violence (Allen, 2016; Toft et al., 2011). The relationship is complex, but generalizing that religion promotes war oversimplifies a nuanced historical reality.
Works Cited
Allen, C. (2016). Religion and conflict resolution. Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs. https://www.carnegiecouncil.org/publications/articles_papers_reports/religion-and-conflict-resolution
Eck, D. L. (2021). On common ground: World religions in America. Columbia University Press.
Elshtain, J. B. (2003). Just war against terror: The burden of American power in a violent world. Basic Books.
Foner, E. (2017). Give me liberty!: An American history (5th ed.). W. W. Norton & Company.
Fox, J. (2004). Is religion good or bad for democracy? Rethinking religion and world affairs. Orbis, 48(1), 63-75. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.orbis.2003.11.004
Johnson, P. (2017). A history of the American people. HarperCollins.
Tucker, J. E. (2018). World war one and religion: A study in socio-political crisis. Routledge.
Toft, M. D., Philpott, D., & Shah, T. S. (2011). God’s century: Resurgent religion and global politics. WW Norton & Company.

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