Full Project – THE EFFECTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON THE WORSHIP OF AFRICA TRADITIONAL RELIGION

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Globalization, as a phenomenon, has had profound effects on various aspects of human life, including religion. In the context of African Traditional Religion (ATR), globalization has brought about significant changes, both positive and negative. Mbiti (1991) posits that globalization has led to the erosion of some traditional religious practices due to the influence of Western culture and Christianity. This erosion is often seen in the form of syncretism, where elements of ATR are blended with Christian practices. However, globalization has also facilitated the spread of ATR beyond the African continent, leading to its recognition as a global religion (Olupona, 2014).

The advent of technology, a key driver of globalization, has also impacted the worship of ATR. According to Kalu (2007), the internet and social media platforms have become avenues for the dissemination of ATR beliefs and practices. This has not only increased the visibility of ATR but has also led to the creation of online communities where adherents can interact and share their experiences. However, this digitalization of ATR has also raised concerns about the potential loss of the physical communal aspect of worship, which is a key feature of ATR.

Globalization has also led to increased interfaith dialogue and religious pluralism. This has resulted in a greater understanding and appreciation of ATR among non-adherents. For instance, Ejizu (2009) notes that the principles of ATR, such as respect for nature and ancestors, have been incorporated into global discourses on environmental conservation and human rights. However, this has also led to the commodification of ATR, where its symbols and rituals are used for commercial purposes, often without proper understanding or respect (Meyer, 1999).

The economic aspect of globalization has also affected ATR. The increased mobility of people for economic reasons has led to the spread of ATR to urban areas and diaspora communities. This has resulted in the adaptation of ATR practices to new environments, leading to changes in the way ATR is practiced (Ukah, 2003). However, economic globalization has also led to increased poverty and inequality, which has affected the ability of some adherents to participate fully in ATR practices.

In terms of education, globalization has led to increased scholarly interest in ATR. Scholars like Idowu (1973) and Awolalu (1979) have contributed to the documentation and study of ATR, leading to a better understanding of its beliefs and practices. However, the dominance of Western epistemologies in the global academic field has led to challenges in the interpretation and representation of ATR.

Globalization has had a complex impact on the worship of African Traditional Religion. While it has led to the erosion of some practices and the commodification of others, it has also facilitated the spread and recognition of ATR as a global religion. Further research is needed to fully understand the implications of these changes and to develop strategies to preserve the integrity of ATR in the face of globalization.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of globalization’s impact on the worship of African Traditional Religion (ATR) is multifaceted and complex. The advent of globalization has brought about a significant shift in the religious landscape of Africa, with traditional religious practices being influenced by external factors. This has led to a transformation in the way ATR is practiced and perceived, both within and outside the African continent (Mbiti, 1991).

One of the key issues is the erosion of traditional religious practices due to the influence of Western ideologies and practices. Globalization, through the spread of Western culture and Christianity, has led to a decline in the practice of ATR. This is evident in the decreasing number of people who identify as followers of ATR and the increasing number of people who identify as Christians or Muslims (Olupona, 2014).

Another problem is the commodification of ATR. Globalization has led to the commercialization of various aspects of ATR, such as rituals, symbols, and artifacts. This has resulted in the loss of sacredness and authenticity of these religious practices and objects, as they are often used for tourism and entertainment purposes (Meyer, 1999).

The third issue is the marginalization of ATR in the global religious discourse. Despite its significant role in the spiritual lives of many Africans, ATR is often overlooked or dismissed in global religious discussions. This marginalization is partly due to the dominance of Christianity and Islam, which are often seen as more ‘global’ religions (Chidester, 2003).

The fourth problem is the lack of scholarly attention to ATR. Despite its importance, there is a dearth of academic research on ATR, particularly in comparison to other religions. This lack of research contributes to the marginalization of ATR and hinders our understanding of its role and significance in contemporary Africa (Olupona, 2014).

Lastly, the impact of globalization on ATR is not uniform across Africa. The effects vary depending on various factors such as the level of exposure to globalization, the presence of other religions, and the strength of traditional religious institutions. This complexity makes it difficult to fully understand and address the impact of globalization on ATR (Meyer, 1999).

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The study examines the effects of globalization on the worship of Africa Traditional Religion. The specific objectives of the study:

1. To examine the extent to which globalization has influenced the worship practices of African Traditional Religion.
2. To identify the specific aspects of African Traditional Religion that have been most affected by globalization.
3. To understand the perceptions of adherents of African Traditional Religion towards the changes brought about by globalization.
4. To analyze the implications of these changes on the continuity and sustainability of African Traditional Religion.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. To what extent has globalization influenced the worship practices of African Traditional Religion?
2. What specific aspects of African Traditional Religion have been most affected by globalization?
3. How do adherents of African Traditional Religion perceive the changes brought about by globalization?
4. What are the implications of these changes on the continuity and sustainability of African Traditional Religion?

• Significance of the Study

The study of the effects of globalization on the worship of African Traditional Religion (ATR) holds significant value in several respects. Firstly, it contributes to the broader understanding of the dynamics of cultural change and adaptation in the face of global influences. As globalization continues to permeate various aspects of human life, it is crucial to understand how it impacts diverse cultural practices, including religious worship. This study, therefore, provides a unique perspective on this subject by focusing on ATR, a religious tradition that has been largely understudied in the context of globalization.

Secondly, this study is significant as it sheds light on the resilience and adaptability of ATR in the face of globalization. By examining the specific aspects of ATR that have been most affected by globalization, the study reveals the ways in which this religious tradition has adapted to maintain its relevance and continuity. This insight is valuable not only for scholars of religion but also for policymakers and practitioners who are interested in cultural preservation and sustainability.

Thirdly, the study is significant because it provides a platform for the voices of adherents of ATR to be heard. By understanding their perceptions towards the changes brought about by globalization, the study gives voice to a group that is often marginalized in discussions about globalization. This is particularly important in the African context, where the voices of indigenous communities are often overlooked.

Fourthly, the study has implications for the field of religious studies. By analyzing the implications of these changes on the continuity and sustainability of ATR, the study contributes to the understanding of how religious traditions evolve and adapt in response to external influences. This is a key concern in religious studies, and this study provides valuable empirical data to inform this discussion.

Fifthly, the study is significant because it contributes to the literature on ATR. Despite its importance in the lives of many Africans, ATR has been relatively neglected in academic research. This study, therefore, fills a gap in the literature by providing a detailed analysis of the effects of globalization on ATR.

Finally, the study is significant because it has practical implications. By understanding the effects of globalization on ATR, policymakers and practitioners can develop strategies to support the continuity and sustainability of this religious tradition in the face of global change. This is particularly important in the African context, where many traditional practices are under threat from the forces of globalization.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines the effects of globalization on the worship of Africa Traditional Religion.

1.7 Operational Definition of terms

Effects: This term generally refers to the outcome, result, or impact of a particular event, action, or phenomenon. It’s the change that is directly caused by an action or a cause. For example, in the context of your essay, the “effects” would refer to the changes in spinach growth due to different soil textures.

Globalization: This is a process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments worldwide. It’s driven by international trade and investment and aided by information technology. This process has effects on the environment, culture, political systems, economic development and prosperity, and human physical well-being in societies around the world.

Worship: This term refers to the feeling or expression of reverence and adoration for a deity or divine entity. It often involves rituals, prayers, or ceremonies, and can be seen in various religions and belief systems around the world. Worship can also extend to profound love or admiration for someone or something.

Africa Traditional Religion: This term refers to a variety of indigenous religious beliefs and practices of the African people before the Christian and Islamic colonization of Africa. These religions are often based on a variety of deities, ancestral spirits, magic, and traditional medicine. They are deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of each specific ethnic group and vary widely across the continent.

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Full Project – THE EFFECTS OF GLOBALIZATION ON THE WORSHIP OF AFRICA TRADITIONAL RELIGION