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Compare the responses of ONE religious and ONE non-religious belief system to the issue of social responsibility. - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 22 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 22
Compare the responses of ONE religious and ONE non-religious belief system to the issue of social responsibility.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Compare the responses of ONE religious and ONE non-religious belief system to the issue of social responsibility. - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 22 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
Responses of a Religious Belief System
Answer
A religious belief system, such as Christianity, views social responsibility as a fundamental principle. Christians believe that social responsibility is integral to their faith, emphasizing the importance of community and helping those in need. For example, Christians are often encouraged to engage in charitable acts, support the marginalized, and protect the vulnerable as part of their duty to follow God's teachings. This reflects a commitment to moral conduct and altruism, stemming from religious texts and community practices.
Step 2
Responses of a Non-Religious Belief System
Answer
In contrast, a non-religious belief system, such as atheism, approaches social responsibility from a secular perspective. An atheist might advocate for social responsibility based on humanistic principles, arguing that it is essential to create a just society for all individuals. This perspective holds that human welfare should be prioritized and that laws and policies should be established to protect rights and promote equality, irrespective of any religious context. For instance, the focus might be on ensuring that resources are fairly distributed and that all individuals have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives.
Step 3
Comparison of Responses
Answer
While both belief systems recognize the importance of social responsibility, their motivations and underlying principles differ significantly. In Christianity, social responsibility is rooted in divine command and community obligations, while in atheism, it arises from ethical humanism and a commitment to rational societal governance. Therefore, the religious perspective may emphasize charity as an obligation influenced by faith, whereas the non-religious viewpoint focuses on creating equitable systems based on shared human values.