Empirical study of Brazilian diaspora religious practice in Spain

Abstract

Globalisation is inextricably linked to capitalism. One reality of an increasingly globalised world is that cultural diversity and differences are at the forefront of governmental policy in countries around the world. This places renewed emphasis on the concept of 'other' and creates disharmony within society. However, the future of humankind depends on appreciating and accepting diversity and forging connections. For Masanobu Yamada, Department of Area Studies, Faculty of International Studies, Tenri University, Japan, such connections can be achieved through religion, which can provide security, a sense of belonging and cultural connections. Yamada is interested in religious studies and is investigating how religion can transcend national borders and create a sense of community. Key to Yamada's research is religions that were formed in Japan and later expanded into Latin America, and religions that were disseminated by Brazilian immigrants in Japan and Europe, with cultural activities propagating from the region of origin and moving across global borders. Yamada has also discovered instances where the beliefs being propagated by people on the move have also been promoted by people remaining in their home country. He is interested in unravelling institutional-level dynamism and believer-led dynamics. He is keen to explore the transformations experienced by people who emigrated abroad and their family and friends who remained in Brazil, with a focus on connections through religious values and how this contributed to the creation of a new culture.