Decolonized Religions as Social Forces Within Space Settlements

Abstract

Several good studies have probed the social dynamics of space settlements, including crucial religious dimensions. Religion, after all, may play stabilizing or destabilizing roles within groups, thus affecting settlement viability and productivity. Unlike other studies, though, this article explores religiosity from a decolonized perspective which, instead of spotlighting the export of religions from Earth, engages the potential spiritual creativity of settlers from settler points of view, including ostensibly nonreligious ones. Using Mars as an example location, these settler points of view involve establishing recognizable traditional religions, albeit in their more ecumenical forms; creating a place for cosmopolitan spiritualities like Baha'i; experimenting with new forms of styles like religious naturalism; and, poignantly, developing homegrown Martian nature religiosity. This analysis aids comprehension of some of the contours and dynamics of religions in space settlements and hence understanding of settlement viability, operation, and flourishing.