Civics U: Religion in Culture
From an anthropological as well a historical viewpoint, religion- that is, a people’s world view – is at the core of traditional cultures around the world. Religion in this sense includes not only beliefs in supernatural powers or God or gods, and related ceremonies, but is the basis for cultural values, and social systems and relationships.
This is the case with well-known major religions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, Confucianism, and lesser known regional and tribal and religions. In some cases the governing ‘religion’ consists of a secularist or atheist world view, and in some countries ruling governmental views and policies are actual hostile to religion and religious practices.
At the time of this writing, it is ‘Christmas season’ in the U.S. and in many places in the world. Christmas as a Christian holiday commemorating the birth of Christ is celebrated every December 25th, and has been a federal legal holiday since 1885. Christmas is obviously an important custom in American culture.
Reflecting on the various Christmas activities provides some perspective on contemporary American culture.
On one hand traditional Christian activities continue. Churches hold Christmas services, and Christian carols and hymns are sung celebrating the birth of Jesus the Savior.
At the same time Santa Claus and other ancient customs receive much of the spotlight. And the giving and exchanging of gifts is done by Christian and non-Christian people alike, and city Christmas parade floats feature everything from carolers or to the Grinch. Meanwhile, some folks wish others a “Merry Christmas” while some employers have instructed employees to instead only wish others “Happy Holidays.”
In other words, there are both sacred and secular elements in the American Christmas, as there have been for years. A question is whether there is a shift in focus and emphasis. America, in spite of its faults and ‘sins’, began and operated largely as a Christian country. Indications also show that the country – that many people – now are increasingly secular or are pursuing other world views and practices. Meanwhile, Christmas cards send warm greetings, while some remind friends that Jesus is the reason for the season.
Our holidays, including Christmas, both reflect and guide our beliefs, our values, our attitudes and our activities. Merry Christmas and Feliz Navidad to all!