Understanding the Role of Religion in a Media-Centric Society

Abstract

Usage of media is part of the humdrum of our lives and it is important to understand the foundational change media brought about in our lives. Religion in general has been at the foundations of society and/or social structure. Over the years both mass media and religion have intertwined with each other and this research analyzes the changes brought about in religion due to the influence of mass media and explores the possibility of a creative dialogue between religion and mass media. The first part answers the foundational question of media and presents a comparative report of the effect of media. The challenges that religion has to face from the media are investigated in the second part. The third part explores the role of religion in the possible and necessary transformation of media. By being more media conscious and participative, and co-authoring our part effectively we could use mass media as a social institution for fostering harmony, peace and a universal fraternity.