The nations of the world use different types of government structures to rule their people; however, government control over religion remains a terrible idea. Religion allows people to express themselves; therefore, taking away the right to choose religion would only cause conflict and chaos among citizens.  

Government creation started when people realized they needed protection from conflict and security for law and order. As mankind evolved, people realized staying together in tight-knit groups gave them more power over others who lived as individuals. With neighboring territories that did not get along, countries quickly recognized they needed to establish groups of people who could prevent outside attacks.

As time went by, government rule extended to the economy and public relations. The creation of more laws set forth, providing each citizen an equal opportunity in life. However, as diversity exists in the world, arguments over what the government can control arise. People wonder if the government should control religion.

Religion splits the world into various groups. Different branches of religion, such as Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant Christians, or Sunni and Shia Muslims cause differing beliefs within the same religion, resulting in conflict. Countless people feel that using a universal religion will rid the world of one less issue to argue about. 

“I don’t think the government should control religion over citizens because not everyone believes in the same religion and citizens should control what they want to worship. Universal religion would definitely bring more problems into the world because there are always people that won’t cooperate causing a rebellion,” sophomore Tania Alston said. 

Religion creates ties to family history and gives people a sense of belonging. If the government controlled religion, people would feel hurt and want revenge for not obtaining the chance to express their religion.

“The government should not control religion because in the US we have the freedom to practice whatever we want and that would be taking away our rights. If the government did control religion, it would only cause conflict because there are so many religions in the world with dedicated followers that would not back down from their faith so trying to make a universal religion would bring more conflict than there already is, and plus you can never get absolutely everyone to agree on one thing,” sophomore Annie Moran said.

With roughly 4,300  religions existing in the world, the government would face a problem when trying to figure out which one to pick. Innumerous people would feel hurt and anger from the government not choosing their faith. 

“The government making everyone follow the same religion would hurt everyone in the long run. Separate religions create a diverse society where everyone can embrace their own beliefs. I believe our differences bring us together rather than drive us apart,” magnet sophomore Megan Tate said. 

While multiple people believe with the creation of a universal religion by the government people would feel more united, creating less conflict. These people fail to remember that everyone on earth possesses differing ideas especially when it comes to religion. Even though various religions obtain similar morals and worship styles, people identify with their particular religion for other reasons. 

The government enforcing a universal faith would do immeasurable damage. Citizens of the world would feel left out and unheard. Instead, the government should embrace society’s differences and enforce tactics to make people feel more connected and more of a family.