In the course of history, religious communities have adopted various cultural expressions, which have sometimes been understood as integral parts of their religion. Even when certain cultural expressions of religion have become outdated, these cultural expressions have sometimes been regarded as permanently valid. By considering certain aspects of their faith and tradition sacrosanct (that is, beyond the reach of evaluation), religious communities may have even forgotten the original spiritual inspiration and wisdom of their religious tradition. When this occurs, cultural forms of religion act as obstacles to the expression of genuine religious values. In recent times, the virtual world has given rise to new cultural expressions of religion. This conference will explore the intersection of religion and culture in order to identify the cultural dimensions of religious beliefs and practices.
Sub-themes:
• Religion as cultural identity; inclusion, exclusion, and power dynamics; faith in a globalized world.
• Religious values can sometimes be overlooked or forgotten by the unexamined use of former cultural expressions.
• The connection of cultural expressions of religion with their original spiritual inspiration.
• Religious values are related to cultural expressions which have a specific context.
• Cultural patterns of behavior depend on religious language and symbols.
• Different religions in a certain region can share similar cultural expressions.
• Modern values and attitudes are having an impact on religious expression.
• The virtual world is changing the expression of religion.
• Just as it is natural for culture to change, so it is natural for religion to change.
• The rise of universal consciousness is also expressed through cultural attitudes & practices.
Important Dates:
Abstract Deadline: 4th August, 2025
Acceptance Notification: 12th August, 2025
Full Paper Deadline: 15th September, 2025
Acceptance Notification: 25th September, 2025
Early Bird Deadline: 1st October, 2025
Conference Date: 26th, 27th October, 2025
CONFERENCE THEME: FAITH AND HERITAGE: NAVIGATING THE INTERSECTIONS OF RELIGION & CULTURE
