The Role of Religion in Education for Social Sustainability

Abstract

Religion and sustainability are not terms often used together, despite religion having a role in sustaining communities for centuries. Religions are rarely static, but adapt and change with the differing needs of the environments in which they operate. It is this process of change and adaptation that enables them to sustain communities, as well as to be sustained as living systems. Religions do this by creating symbolic systems of shared meaning that adapt to reflect, and alternatively are reflected in, lived experiences. I will explore the manner in which religions create symbolism, meaning, and values, while facilitating interaction with different religious systems by connecting through similar values. This will form a basis for understanding the assumptions and values of communities, both overtly and nominally connected with religious traditions and cultures, and the manner in which interaction with individuals and groups from different traditions can occur. How does this relate to adult and vocational education? Through an understanding of the connection between religion and the creation of meaning and values within communities, strategies can be developed for workplace education, incorporating education on religion, religious assumptions, and cultural difference, thus leading to a more harmonious functioning of multicultural workplaces and global networks.