Adjusting the Focus: The Role of Applied Humanities in Rectifying the Commercialization of Religion in a Globalized World

This paper explores the profound impact of metaphors on our worldviews, specifically focusing on the influence of the “marketplace” metaphor in shaping perceptions of religion in our global society. This dominant metaphor tends to promote exclusivity rather than encouraging constructive, inclusive approaches to religious pluralism. To promote inclusive perspectives, particularly within pluralistic societies, we should consider using alternative metaphors. As our society progresses, bolstered by technological advances, so too does the nature of work and our understanding of human value. This evolution ushers in a new set of metaphors, reshaping our collective mindset. Today, in the context of a heavily commercialized society, fields of study perceived as financially rewarding often overshadow the humanities, a discipline rich in intrinsic value. However, the winds of change are blowing. As our society continually evolves through generational shifts and technological advancements, so too are our metaphors and perspectives. There’s a burgeoning emphasis on the humanities, especially as applied disciplines, that could equip us with the human-centric tools required to construct a worldview less dominated by commercialization. Globalization, in its essence, does not adopt its own perspective, but rather is a vessel for spreading dominant perspectives. As we move forward, it becomes crucial to recognize the shifts in the metaphors we use and their impact on our worldviews, in order to adapt and refine our understanding of our evolving global society.