As society becomes increasingly multicultural and multiethnic, the way we relate to each other is also changing. In this new world, people from different cultures, religions, and belief systems interact and live together. This diversity brings about many challenges when it comes to sex, sexuality, and intimacy. How do these societies negotiate competing religious norms and what strategies are used by individuals to maintain relational coherence amid diverse ethical expectations?
To answer this question, we will explore some examples from various countries around the globe where integrated societies with multiple religious influences exist. First, let's look at India. India has been home to several religions for centuries, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism. Despite these differences, Indians have managed to coexist peacefully for years. One strategy they use to maintain relational coherence is through arranged marriages. Arranged marriages involve families or matchmakers selecting potential partners based on cultural, social, and religious compatibility. This system helps ensure that both partners share similar values and beliefs regarding relationships and marriage.
Another example is Brazil, a country with a large population of African descendants who practice Catholicism while also practicing traditional Afro-Brazilian religions such as Candomblé and Umbanda. In this mixed culture, people often find themselves in situations where they must balance their faith with their romantic desires.
Candomblé followers believe that premarital sex is forbidden, but Umbandists encourage openness in relationships. To navigate these conflicting beliefs, couples may choose to practice one religion publicly and another privately. They might go to church together on Sundays and participate in rituals like Voodoo ceremonies when alone.
In Japan, where Buddhist and Shinto traditions are prevalent, the same issue exists. Couples may attend Shinto wedding ceremonies and then receive a Buddhist blessing afterward. In addition, Japanese society places a high value on family and community, which can influence sexual norms.
Some couples may decide not to live together before marriage or avoid public displays of affection to preserve their reputation.
Let's look at South Africa. With its diverse population of Muslims, Christians, Hindus, and Africans, the country has a mix of religious and cultural influences. To deal with competing ethical expectations, many individuals turn to secularism. Secularism involves separating religion from politics and other aspects of life, including relationships. This approach allows for greater freedom and flexibility in decision making without having to conform to strict religious guidelines.
Negotiating competing sexual norms in an integrated society requires compromise, communication, and understanding. By acknowledging each other's beliefs and finding common ground, people can build meaningful relationships despite differences in faith or tradition.
How do integrated societies with multiple religious influences negotiate competing sexual norms, and what strategies are used by individuals to maintain relational coherence amid diverse ethical expectations?
Integrated societies that experience multi-religious influence encounter difficulty when negotiating their varying sexual norms because of the differing moral values attached to them. This difficulty stems from conflicting viewpoints about acceptable behavior related to sex, including matters such as premarital relationships, extra-marital relations, divorce, marriage, and homosexuality among others.