Grade 12 Religion Studies Paper 1 | Free Study Notes | Past Exam Papers & Memos 3

In the context of Religion Studies, state facts about EACH of the following concepts:

Question
Comparability

Comparability refers to the practice of looking for similarities and differences between religions. It allows us to explore how various faiths address key aspects such as beliefs, rituals, sacred texts, ethical teachings, and worldviews. Through this approach, we can better understand the diverse ways people seek meaning and express spirituality.

Two or more religions can be compared, even if they originate from different historical or cultural backgrounds. For instance, a comparison between Christianity and Hinduism may reveal different ideas about God but shared values like love, compassion, and justice.

Comparability can be implicit, meaning it happens naturally as we notice similarities, or explicit, where scholars intentionally study religions side by side. By comparing religions, we promote dialogue, tolerance, and a deeper appreciation of religious diversity.

Question
Canon

Canon refers to the process of determining which books or scriptures are considered authoritative within a religion. These writings are regarded as inspired by God, revealed truth, or officially recognized by religious leaders as the foundation for faith and practice. A canon sets the standard for what is taught, believed, and followed within a religious community.

Although the term originally applied to Christian and Jewish sacred texts, it is now used more broadly to describe the official scriptures in other religions too. For example, the Bible is the canon of Christianity, the Qur’an for Islam, and the Tripitaka for Buddhism.

Establishing a canon helps preserve a religion’s core teachings, values, and identity across generations. It ensures consistency in belief and provides guidance for worship, ethics, and daily living.

Question
Belief

Belief is sometimes used as another word for religion because both involve holding convictions about spiritual truths, the nature of the divine, and the meaning of life. A belief may also refer to a firm opinion or trust in certain ideas, even outside a formal religious structure.

In a religious context, belief means accepting the teachings and doctrines of a particular faith. For example, Christians believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, while Hindus believe in karma and reincarnation. These beliefs shape how followers worship, act, and understand their place in the world.

Belief can also involve normative acceptance, meaning followers are expected to accept and live by the teachings of their faith. This commitment not only guides personal values but connects individuals to their religious community and tradition.

Question
Communal way of life

Communal way of life is a practice in certain religions such as African Traditional Religion and Judaism. These faiths encourage living together in close-knit communities that uphold shared traditions and values.

There is a strong emphasis on the community, with little emphasis on individualism. People are encouraged to prioritise the wellbeing of the group over personal interests, fostering unity and collective responsibility.

Structure and organisation of society are led by the elders for whom there is a great respect. Elders are seen as wise leaders who guide the community in important decisions and serve as custodians of cultural and spiritual practices.

Question
Tao

Tao is the central concept of Taoism. It forms the foundation of Taoist philosophy and describes the natural order of the universe.

It is ‘the way’ that humans should follow, guiding people to live in harmony with nature and the cosmic balance. By following the Tao, one aligns their life with the flow of the universe.

Tao means the path of the universe. It refers to the unseen force or principle that governs all existence and movement in the cosmos.

The Tao is the producer of all that there is, and the guarantor of its stability and regularity. Everything that exists is born from the Tao, and it ensures that life continues in an orderly and balanced way.

Question
Reincarnation

Reincarnation is a belief common to Hinduism and Buddhism. Both religions teach that life continues beyond physical death through rebirth.

It refers to the rebirth of the soul or spirit in a new body. After death, the soul is believed to enter another form of existence, influenced by the karma accumulated in previous lives.

Question
Four Noble Truths

The Four Noble Truths emphasise the suppression of the ego. In Buddhism, followers are taught to let go of selfish desires that cause suffering.

It is the central doctrine of anatma in Buddhism. This doctrine teaches that there is no permanent, unchanging self, challenging the idea of a fixed personal identity.

Enlightenment comes about through an individual’s efforts, and not by the intervention or intercession of others, or of any gods. Each person is responsible for their own path to liberation.

Disciplined meditation is a key practice. Through meditation, Buddhists cultivate mindfulness and insight, helping them apply the Four Noble Truths and move closer to enlightenment.

State the unique features of EACH of the following religions:

Question
Bahá’i Faith

Followers of the Bahá’i Faith believe that Bahá’u’lláh is the most recent of God’s messengers, sent to guide humanity in the modern age. His coming is seen as marking the beginning of a new era of peace, justice, and equality across the world.

The Bahá’i Faith teaches that there is only one God, and that all religions worship this same God, although they may do so in different ways according to their cultures and histories. This belief promotes a sense of unity among different faiths.

A unique feature of the Bahá’i Faith is its democratic organisation and administration. Unlike many religions that have clergy or priests leading worship, the Bahá’i community is governed by elected councils that oversee its affairs.

They also believe that, in the distant future, all the religions of the world will become one, and that this future universal religion will be the Bahá’i Faith.

Question
African Traditional Religion

African Traditional Religion is a clan-based religion, meaning that religious practices and beliefs are closely tied to the family or clan unit rather than individual worship. This strengthens communal identity and responsibilities.

It is believed that this religion was revealed to the first generation of the clan, and that these teachings have been passed down through ancestors. This connection to ancestors plays a vital role in maintaining the link between the living and the spiritual world.

When people die in African Traditional Religion, they are believed to join the spirit world, where they continue to influence and guide the living. Ancestors are honoured and respected as part of this ongoing relationship.

A central value promoted by African Traditional Religion is Ubuntu, which emphasises compassion, humanity, and interconnectedness among people in the community.

Question
Judaism

One of the unique features of Judaism is the belief in a covenant with God. This covenant is a sacred agreement between God and the Jewish people, symbolising their special relationship with Him.

Jewish people believe that they are God’s chosen nation, tasked with living according to His commandments and setting an example of faithfulness and righteousness.

They also believe that Israel is their promised land, given to them by God as part of His covenant. The land holds deep spiritual and historical significance in Jewish faith and culture.

Another key belief in Judaism is that the Torah, or Law, was given to Moses by God. The Torah serves as the foundation of Jewish religious teachings, laws, and ethical guidelines.

Question
Buddhism

Buddhists believe in the principle of impermanence, meaning that nothing in life lasts forever. Everything is constantly changing, and understanding this helps people let go of attachment and suffering.

They also believe in insubstantiality, the idea that no part of the human being—or anything else—is immortal or eternal. There is no permanent self or soul that continues unchanged.

Another belief is in unsatisfactoriness, which explains that nothing in life is stable or truly fulfilling. Despite this, humans continue to search for permanence, and this desire leads to suffering.

The ultimate goal in Buddhism is to achieve Nirvana, which is the acceptance of reality as it is. Nirvana brings contentment and freedom from suffering by letting go of attachments and illusions.

Question
Christianity

Christians believe in the Holy Trinity, which means that God exists as three persons: God the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This belief is central to their understanding of God’s nature and relationship with the world.

Christians also believe that Jesus fulfilled the Jewish prophecy and that He is a universal Saviour. They see Jesus as the one who completed the promises made in the Hebrew Scriptures, offering salvation to all people regardless of their background.

Question
Hinduism

Hindus believe there is only one ultimate reality, but many paths to reaching it. This belief allows for a diversity of practices and philosophies within Hinduism, acknowledging that different approaches can all lead to the same divine truth.

Hinduism is underpinned by the belief in reincarnation, which is influenced by the Law of Karma. According to this belief, the actions a person performs in their life determine their future rebirths, creating a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Hinduism’s social structure is based on a caste system. This system divides society into different groups, each with its own roles, duties, and responsibilities, traditionally shaping social and occupational status.

Question
Explain the philosophy of Ubuntu.

Moral order in African Traditional Religion is characterised by the concept of Ubuntu. This concept shapes the way people interact with one another and ensures that values and ethical principles guide social relationships.

Ubuntu is an African philosophy that promotes respect and empathy for all human beings. It encourages people to recognise the dignity of others and to treat everyone with kindness, compassion, and understanding.

Ubuntu means “a person is a person through other people.” This expression highlights the belief that an individual’s identity and humanity are deeply connected to their relationships with others in the community.

Question
Name the four castes in Hinduism.

The first caste in Hinduism is the Brahmanas. This caste traditionally consists of priests and scholars who are responsible for religious rituals and preserving sacred knowledge.

The second caste is the Kshatriyas. Members of this caste are traditionally warriors and rulers, tasked with protecting and governing society.

The third caste is the Vaishyas. This group is associated with merchants, farmers, and businesspeople who play an important role in the economic activities of the community.

The fourth caste is the Sudras. People in this caste are typically involved in serving the other three castes through various forms of labour and service occupations.

What is the difference between EACH of the following:

What is the difference between the Quran and the Hadith?

The text containing the revelations from God is known as the Qur’an. This book is regarded as the supreme scripture of Islam and is seen as the word of God. The Qur’an holds a central place in the Islamic faith, and its divine authority is undisputed among Muslims. One unique feature is that the Qur’an cannot be separated from the language in which it was revealed, which is Arabic. It should be studied in that original Arabic text so as to keep the correct meaning and avoid misinterpretations. After the Qur’an, the most important text in Islam is the Hadith. The Hadith contains the sayings of the Prophet and shows the examples set by the Prophet Muhammad. While the Qur’an is the direct word of God, the Hadith provides guidance based on the Prophet’s teachings and actions, serving as a complementary source for understanding Islamic practice.

What is the difference between incarnation and resurrection?

Incarnation means God becomes human. An example of this is Jesus, who Christians believe was God and human at the same time. This belief emphasizes the idea that God took on human form to fulfill a divine purpose on earth. In contrast, resurrection means that a person has risen from the dead. For example, Christians believe that Jesus rose from the dead after His crucifixion. Therefore, incarnation refers to God becoming human, while resurrection refers to a person who has died being brought back to life.

What is the difference between Oludumare in Yoruba and Dzengi in the Aka religion?

Oludumare is the Supreme God in the Yoruba religion. He is regarded as the highest divine being, the creator, and the ultimate source of all life and existence in Yoruba belief. In contrast, Dzengi is the forest spirit who helps with hunting in the Aka religion. Dzengi is not a supreme god but a spiritual figure associated with nature, particularly the forest, and plays an important role in aiding hunters. The key difference is that Oludumare is worshipped as the Supreme God in Yoruba religion, while Dzengi serves as a forest spirit who assists hunters in the Aka religion.

Question
Describe two factors that shape the religious identity of people.

Rituals

The religious identity of a person is shaped through certain rituals. These rituals, such as ceremonies, prayer routines, or rites of passage, help individuals connect deeply with their faith. By participating in these sacred activities, people express their commitment and belonging to their religious community.

Symbols

The religious identity of an individual is also shaped through religious symbols. Symbols like the cross, the crescent moon, or prayer beads act as visible signs of belief. They remind followers of their spiritual commitments and foster a sense of shared identity within the faith community.

Dress Code

The dress code of a particular religion shapes the religious identity of its adherents. Wearing specific religious clothing—such as head coverings, robes, or other garments—shows dedication to religious teachings and visibly distinguishes adherents from those of other faiths.

Teachings and Practices

Teachings and practices are other examples that shape religious identity. The moral guidelines, laws, and everyday practices taught within a religion guide how individuals live their lives, reinforcing their sense of belonging and spiritual purpose.

Question
Explain Shabbat in Judaism.

‘Shabbat’ stands for ‘Saturday.’ This day is believed to be the special day of rest that must be observed by Jewish people. It was ordained by God as a holy day set apart from the other days of the week. Shabbat begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday, during which time Jewish adherents refrain from work and focus on worship, family, and spiritual reflection. The observance of Shabbat is a core part of Jewish religious identity, serving as a weekly reminder of the covenant between God and the Jewish people.

Question
Discuss the similarities between Christianity and African Traditional Religion.

Belief in One Deity

Christianity and African Traditional Religion both believe in the existence of one deity. In Christianity, this deity is known as God, while in African Traditional Religion the Supreme Being is referred to by different names such as Modimo, Unkulunkulu, or uMvelinqangi. This similarity shows that despite cultural and historical differences, both religions are rooted in a belief in a higher power that is the creator and sustainer of life. This shared belief provides followers in both faiths with a sense of spiritual authority and guidance.

Subdivisions within the Religion

Both Christianity and African Traditional Religion have subdivisions. In Christianity, these are seen in the form of denominations like Catholicism, Protestantism, and Orthodoxy, while in African Traditional Religion, subdivisions can be based on different clans, ethnic groups, or regions, each with its own unique practices. This similarity highlights how both religions have adapted to different contexts and communities, showing flexibility while maintaining core beliefs. It also reflects the diversity found within religious practice.

Communal Rituals

Both religions have communal rituals that play a central role in worship and community life. In Christianity, communal rituals include practices like baptism, Holy Communion, and collective prayer services. In African Traditional Religion, communal rituals often involve offerings, celebrations, and ceremonies to honor ancestors and the Supreme Being. These communal activities foster unity, strengthen social bonds, and affirm shared beliefs among members of the community in both religions.

Belief in an Afterlife

Both Christianity and African Traditional Religion believe in an afterlife. Christians believe in heaven and eternal life with God, while African Traditional Religion holds the belief that when people die, they join the world of the ancestors. This shared belief in life beyond death offers comfort and hope to followers, reinforcing moral behavior and spiritual devotion in this life. It also emphasizes a continuity of existence that extends beyond the physical world in both religious systems.

Question
Explain the difference between the concepts teaching and belief.

The concept of teaching comes from the word “to teach,” which may simply mean to impart knowledge or understanding in one way or another. Teachings are closely related to belief because a follower will have faith in a particular religion because one has learned a set of teachings that one holds to be true. In this way, teachings provide the foundation of knowledge and principles that guide a follower’s faith and religious practice.

On the other hand, “belief” is sometimes used as a synonym for “religion,” showing how deeply belief is tied to a person’s religious identity. A belief is a firm opinion, how a person feels or thinks about a religious world view. Therefore, while teachings focus on the content and knowledge imparted, belief refers to the personal conviction and acceptance of those teachings as true.

Read the article below and answer the questions that follow.

WE BLAME IT ALL ON WITCHCRAFT!

It is odd that when a black person is having a hard time in life, he or she often thinks of witchcraft or that they have been cursed.

Global statistics show that about 3 to 4 billion people around the world live below the poverty line. Therefore, if we use the ‘curse logic’, then it means that all these 3 to 4 billion people are cursed or bewitched. The only way to change things is to first change how we view hardships and challenges.

Is it not counterproductive to blame bad luck on something that can’t be changed? ‘Because if we can’t change it, it means we cannot elevate ourselves out of the situation we are in.’ African people know there is great value in traditional healers, but subscribing to superstitious ideas that keep them suppressed is pointless.

[Adapted from the Daily Sun, ‘Letter of the Day’ by Molefe Mashilo 2022]

Question
Identify ONE stereotype that, according to the article, exists among the poor.

One stereotype that exists among the poor, according to the article, is that when they have a hard time in life, they often think of witchcraft or believe that they have been cursed. This stereotype suggests that poverty and hardship are caused by supernatural forces rather than real-world challenges.

Question
Explain the effects of this stereotype on the community.

Manipulation by traditional healers
One of the effects of this stereotype is that they are often manipulated by traditional healers, diviners and false prophets. These individuals exploit the belief in witchcraft to gain control and influence over the community.

Wasting money on consultations
Another effect is that they waste the little money they have in consulting these traditional healers. Instead of spending their limited resources on education, business, or family needs, they spend it seeking supernatural solutions.

Loss of motivation to work hard
This stereotype also causes them to cease to work hard in order to improve their future. Believing that their fate is sealed by a curse, they lose hope and stop striving for personal or economic progress.

Suspicion and violence in the community
Furthermore, it sows suspicions of witchcraft among the members of the community. People start to doubt and mistrust one another, which breaks community bonds. In extreme cases, they kill each other based on their superstitions, leading to tragic violence and conflict.

Question
Explain the meaning of superstitious ideas.

Superstitious ideas mean a belief in supernatural forces to influence an individual. These are any belief or practice considered to be irrational or baseless. People who hold such ideas attribute outcomes to fate or magic by those who believe in the supernatural, rather than relying on facts or science.

Question
‘Global statistics show that about 3 to 4 billion people around the world live below the poverty line.’

What can religious organisations do to address the issue of superstition?

Religious organisations can play a powerful role in addressing the issue of superstition by educating people about the consequences of witchcraft in communities. By creating awareness about how harmful and divisive these beliefs can be, they help people understand the negative impact that accusations of witchcraft and superstition have on relationships, trust, and community safety.

In addition to education, religious organisations should make people aware of charlatans and “get rich quick” schemes. By warning communities about individuals who exploit their fears and desperation, they protect vulnerable people from fraud and manipulation. Religious leaders can teach their followers to be cautious of false promises and to seek honest ways of improving their lives.

Another important action is that they must open skills development centres in their communities. These centres can equip people with practical skills and knowledge, empowering them to find employment or start their own small businesses. Alongside skills training, they must promote entrepreneurship so that people may support themselves. By encouraging self-employment and small enterprises, religious organisations foster independence and economic growth, reducing reliance on harmful superstitious practices.

Lastly, religious organisations must guide their communities by teaching that hard work together with prayer should be used to eliminate belief in witchcraft. By combining spiritual faith with a strong work ethic, individuals can find hope, strength, and practical solutions, moving away from blaming misfortunes on supernatural causes.

Question
According to the extract, ‘there is great value in traditional healers’. State aspects where they are of value.

Traditional healers are of great value because they ‘cleanse’ those who are affected by witchcraft. In many communities, people turn to traditional healers when they believe they have been bewitched or cursed, and the healer performs rituals to cleanse them from these harmful influences, offering relief and hope.

Another important role is that they help people develop a positive attitude. By providing reassurance, spiritual guidance, and emotional support, traditional healers encourage individuals to overcome fear and despair, helping them feel empowered and hopeful about their lives.

Traditional healers are also valuable because they mediate between the living and the ancestors. Through rituals, offerings, and communication with ancestral spirits, they help maintain harmony between the spiritual and physical worlds, ensuring that the ancestors are respected and their guidance is received.

Lastly, they use herbal medicine to heal the sick. Traditional healers possess knowledge of various plants and natural remedies, which they use to treat illnesses and ailments, providing healthcare solutions, especially in communities with limited access to modern medical services.

Question
Do you think the article is biased? Give reasons for your answer.

NO
The article is not biased because it tries to instil a sense of awareness in the people by encouraging them to reflect critically on their belief systems. Instead of simply blaming their problems on witchcraft or curses, the article motivates people to take responsibility for their situations and seek practical ways to improve their lives. This shows that the intention is not to attack anyone’s beliefs, but rather to help them adopt a more empowering perspective.

Furthermore, the article states facts about black people who claim that they have been bewitched or cursed. It presents real situations observed in many communities where people genuinely believe that their misfortunes are caused by supernatural forces. By mentioning these facts, the author highlights a common mindset without generalising or condemning everyone who holds such beliefs.

Lastly, the article is not biased because it explains how people can escape the cycle of poverty. It suggests that changing one’s mindset, working hard, and not relying on superstitious explanations can help individuals rise above their circumstances. Instead of leaving people feeling helpless, it offers a way forward, showing that personal action and responsibility are key to overcoming poverty.

YES
However, some may feel that the article is biased because it is not only poor people who believe in superstition. Superstitious beliefs are found across all economic classes, and many wealthy or middle-class individuals also hold similar views about luck or supernatural causes of problems. By focusing mainly on poor communities, the article could unintentionally create the impression that superstition is a problem unique to poverty.

Another reason why it could be seen as biased is that it is not only black people who believe in bad luck. People from many different races and cultures around the world believe in omens, curses, or bad luck, and it would be inaccurate to suggest that this belief is limited to one racial group. Therefore, the article might have unintentionally reinforced a stereotype by not acknowledging the broader context of superstition in other groups.

For example, the article overlooks the fact that others believe that Friday the 13th is also a day of bad luck, a well-known superstition in many Western countries. This shows that superstitious thinking is not confined to African cultures but exists globally in different forms. By not including such examples, the article could be seen as one-sided in its critique.

Lastly, the author says nothing about people who are working hard and have achieved their goals despite facing similar challenges. By leaving out stories of success, the article misses an opportunity to show that many individuals are already overcoming difficulties through hard work and determination, even while living in environments where superstition is common. This omission may make the article feel incomplete or biased towards a negative portrayal.

Question
Do you think that rich people believe in the ‘curse logic’? Give reasons for your answer.

YES
Some rich people do indeed believe in the ‘curse logic’, despite their financial status. Thousands of rich people consult traditional healers because of ‘curse logic’. Although they have wealth and success, they may still turn to spiritual or supernatural solutions to address personal problems or business difficulties. This reflects the deep-rooted nature of these beliefs, where people from various social classes, including the wealthy, may fear being cursed or affected by negative spiritual forces. This demonstrates that superstition is not solely a concern for the poor, but is also a belief that can persist among those who are financially well-off.

Furthermore, in some cases, it is in the businesses of rich people where human tissues are found, which is cited as evidence of witchcraft. Some believe that wealthier individuals may engage in witchcraft or black magic, using supernatural means to gain or protect their success. The idea that body parts are used for rituals or potions, especially in the context of wealth, feeds into the belief that rich people may resort to such practices in their pursuit of power. This dark side of the ‘curse logic’ suggests that, even for the rich, there may be a temptation to use supernatural forces to maintain or increase their wealth.

In addition to this, rich people sometimes hire poor people to kill innocent individuals in order to harvest body parts for ‘magic’ potions. This practice, though extreme, reflects the belief that supernatural forces and witchcraft can be harnessed for personal gain, even by wealthy individuals. The idea of using human parts for magical rituals in the pursuit of wealth or power shows how the ‘curse logic’ can manifest in harmful ways, affecting individuals at all levels of society.

NO
On the other hand, rich people generally do not believe in the ‘curse logic’ in the same way that some poorer individuals do. Because their needs are fulfilled, wealthy individuals are less likely to attribute misfortune or challenges to supernatural forces. They are typically more grounded in practical solutions, relying on their resources, education, and access to professional help rather than superstition. For rich people, the idea of curses or witchcraft does not play a significant role in their everyday lives, as they have other means to address and solve problems.

Additionally, ‘curse logic’ is seen as a result of negativity, laziness, and frustration in the minds of many rich people. They view these beliefs as a coping mechanism for those who feel helpless or stuck in difficult situations. Wealthy individuals may see the reliance on supernatural explanations as a way of avoiding personal responsibility or effort. For them, success is rooted in hard work, perseverance, and smart decision-making, rather than attributing setbacks to forces beyond their control. In this way, rich people are less likely to believe in ‘curse logic’, seeing it as a mindset that prevents people from overcoming adversity and achieving their goals.

Question
Why do you think black people in particular are mentioned?

Black people are specifically mentioned because they believe in the power of ancestors, which plays a significant role in their cultural and religious practices. Many black communities uphold the idea that ancestors can influence their lives, offering protection or causing harm, depending on the situation. This belief makes them more likely to view life events through a spiritual lens, especially when facing challenges or misfortunes.

Another reason is that they can be manipulated by those who have religious authority, such as isangoma or diviners. People in positions of spiritual leadership may exploit these beliefs for personal gain, convincing individuals to spend money on rituals or remedies meant to reverse curses or bad luck. This manipulation is easier when there is already a strong belief in spiritual forces affecting daily life.

It is also important to note that the majority of the world’s poor are black people. Poverty increases vulnerability to superstitions, as those struggling to survive may look for hope or solutions beyond material means. The combination of poverty and strong cultural beliefs makes black communities more susceptible to explanations rooted in witchcraft or curses.

Furthermore, there are stereotypes about blacks and witchcraft, which have been perpetuated over time through media, literature, and societal narratives. These stereotypes unfairly associate black communities with magical or mystical practices, reinforcing a biased image that links black identity with superstition.

Lastly, the Daily Sun targets a black readership; hence reference to black people is relevant to its audience. The newspaper focuses on topics, issues, and cultural discussions that resonate with black South African communities. By mentioning black people specifically, the article addresses the beliefs and experiences that are common within its primary readership.

Question
How can religious organisations protect themselves from negative reporting by the media?

Education on Media Handling
Religious organisations need to educate their members on how to handle the media. By providing proper training, they can equip their followers with the skills and knowledge to engage with journalists and reporters in a respectful, informed, and professional manner. This education helps members avoid saying or doing things in public that could be misinterpreted or sensationalized by the media, reducing the risk of negative portrayals.

Avoiding Negative Actions
Religious organisations should not do negative things that will attract negative media coverage. It is important for these organisations to uphold ethical standards and conduct themselves with integrity in all their activities. By staying away from scandals, controversies, and actions that contradict their moral teachings, they can prevent situations that would give the media reason to publish damaging reports about them.

Establishing a Media Department
Religious organisations should have their own media department to promote their work. This department can take charge of creating and sharing positive stories, achievements, and community contributions through official channels such as newsletters, websites, and social media platforms. Having an internal media team allows the organisation to control their narrative and provide accurate information to the public, helping to counteract any negative reporting from external media sources.

Question
Do you think the South African media provide fair coverage of religion? Give FOUR reasons for your answer.

NO
Some people believe that the South African media does not provide fair coverage of religion because pressure groups, both within civil society and government, ensure that media articles support their interests. This means that certain powerful groups influence what is published, leading to biased reporting that favors their agenda rather than offering balanced coverage of different religious views.

Another reason is that journalists’ reporting simply mirrors their own prejudices. The personal beliefs and biases of reporters can shape how they present religious stories, which may result in unfair or unbalanced coverage, depending on their attitudes toward particular religions or practices.

It is also argued that the media is a business and will seek out newsworthy items. Since religious events or issues may not always be sensational or controversial, they might be overlooked in favor of stories that attract more attention and generate profits, leading to less fair representation.

Lastly, an article reporting that a midnight mass went as planned has little news value. This shows that routine or positive religious events are often ignored by the media because they are not seen as exciting or newsworthy, which contributes to an unfair lack of coverage for peaceful religious practices.

YES
On the other hand, some argue that the South African media does provide fair coverage of religion because freedom of the press is reflected in the variety of viewpoints, as is also expressed in religious reporting. This means that different religious perspectives are allowed to be shared in the media without censorship, showing fairness in representation.

There are also religious slots on television channels which report fairly about religions. These dedicated programs offer balanced and respectful coverage of various faiths, helping to inform the public without bias.

Another reason is that all religions are covered on different media platforms. Whether it is newspapers, radio, television, or online platforms, diverse religious beliefs and practices receive attention, ensuring that no single religion is unfairly favored or excluded.

Finally, religious organisations have their independent media, which is intended to spread their teachings. This means that even if mainstream media coverage is limited, religious groups have the opportunity to share their own narratives through their own channels, helping to balance public understanding. Additionally, the law allows for objections to be raised if media coverage is unfair, through bodies like the BCCSA, giving religions a legal way to address grievances about biased reporting.

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