Ninth International Conference on Religion & Spirituality in Society

Abstract

Violence, Torture and Human Rights are concepts intrinsically related. Violence and religion on the contrary are mutually exclusive given that Violence is “the intentional use of physical force against another person” and religion is based on respect and peace. Violence incited, perpetrated and justified in the name of religion is a shocking reality in different parts of the globe, and the brutality displayed in such acts frequently leaves observers speechless given that most Religions in one way or another are based on the Messianic principles of love, tolerance and mutual respect. Violence with religious undercurrents, moreover, is an extremely multifaceted phenomenon we will discuss in our presentation. It is known that Mexico and El Salvador are two of the most violent Countries in the Planet. In this work we will explore the causes and consequences of violence in those Countries. We will analyze if, in these countries Religion have been a cause or a deterrent of violence and torture. El Salvador offers a unique example in which the Catholic Church opposed violence to the point of sacrificing its priests defending the people against the violence committed by the governments against the citizens whose rights Government meant to safeguard. On the other hand, violence in Mexico also presents a unique case for its magnitude and the role of the Catholic Church.