Religion can affect people in many different ways. List at least two effects that organized religion has had on society and give examples from past and/or present world events that illastrate your examples.

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Positive ways:

*Many people feel better about themselves and other people by attending worship services.
*Churches, synagogues, and mosques have been prime contributors to many charities.
*Religions have given us one of the world's outstanding commandments: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
*Some of the world's greatest art work has been commissioned by churches -- cathedrals, paintings, frescoes, statues.
*Since the Koran forbids depicting the human body, Muslims have developed fantastic artwork using intricate designs.
*Many religious groups have vigorously opposed wars.

Negative ways:
*The Christian Crusaders massacred thousands of people and caused a rift between Muslims and Christians that has lasted for 1,000 years.
*Religious conservatives have slowed down development of science -- i.e. the rotation of the earth around the sun, birth control pills, stem cell research, acceptance of evolutionary principles.
*Religious wars such as the Catholics and Protestants in Ireland and the Sunnis and Shiites in Iraq have killed thousands of people.

Organized religion has had various effects on society throughout history. Here are two examples to demonstrate its impact:

1. Social Cohesion and Unity:
Organized religions often provide a sense of community and social cohesion. They bring people together under shared beliefs and values, establishing a common identity and fostering a sense of belonging. This unity can help societies function more smoothly, promote cooperation, and create a support network for its members.

Example: The Catholic Church during the Middle Ages played a significant role in European society, providing not only spiritual guidance but also a centralized authority. The Church acted as a unifying force, establishing common moral codes, regulating social behavior, and providing education. This helped maintain stability and cohesion during a period characterized by political fragmentation and social upheaval.

2. Conflict and Division:
Religion has also been a source of conflicts and divisions throughout history. Differences in religious beliefs have led to tensions, rivalries, and even violent conflicts between different religious groups. Organized religions can sometimes reinforce social divisions and create an "us vs. them" mentality, potentially leading to prejudice and discrimination.

Example: The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the Middle East has religious undertones, rooted in the competing claims of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity over the region. Religious differences, combined with territorial disputes, have fueled tensions and sustained the conflict for decades, leading to immense human suffering and geopolitical complexities.

It is important to note that these examples are generalizations, and the effects of organized religion can vary significantly depending on specific historical and cultural contexts.