Anusha+Prasad+RP+Post+5

The research question: What impact does religion have in an increasingly globalized society? Sub-questions: - How does religion influence one’s individual identity? - How does religion impact politics? - How have different religious faiths changed the mindset of people over time?

Poems/Song: Robert Frost-The Road Not Taken Conrad Aiken-Miracles Red-Pieces

Basically, Frost is saying , as I interpret it, to fit my research question is that sometimes, it is necessary to take the path that may not seem the easiest or one that others would agree with. To adapt this to my research: Religion can help guide people as a moral compass in making decisions that may be difficult, allowing them to take the path that isn't as common, but that can't make a difference. "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference."

In addition to The Road Not Taken, another piece of work, Miracles, also supports that it is, in fact, religion, that can help people in their lives and "lift [their] hearts". It can help clear things not seen, and again, aid in making difficult decisions.

When I was a child, I used to think that religion was something that just existed. There was no rhythm or reason, and while that still holds true today, I believe that my overall belief in religion has changed. Not what I believe in, but how I perceive religion. I now view religion as something that has always been there, and will continue to be there, even through the most tumultuous of times. The song, Pieces, by the band Red, truly embodies that belief-that religion is a presence, existing through the good and bad. Turmoil and conflict exists today, and has for years, but religion has remained a constant. Lines to use: Perhaps, I will have to explain these lines, or condense even more, but I believe these lines embody the point. "I tried so hard Thought I could do this on my own I've lost so much along the way." "I've come undone but you make sense of who I am Like puzzle pieces in your hand." "I find everything I thought I lost before."

Fagan (heritage.org-why religion matters) makes the claim religion matters makes the argument that religion is necessary for social stability. He gives ample evidence to support this claim such as " The regular practice of religion helps poor persons move out of poverty" and many others which I will utilize in my paper. He emphasizes that the government needs to be more in tune with the impact of religion and utilize that in their policies, as it can, and will make a difference.