Along with the positive functions religion has also some negative functions or dysfunctions. Some of the main negative functions of religion are as follows:
1. Religion hinders Social progress and impedes social changes:
Religion makes people dogmatic and God-fearing. It upholds traditionalism and impedes social changes by encouraging superstitions, traditions and customs. The followers of religion hesitate to accept scientific discoveries and technological inventions and thereby progress of society is obstructed.
2. It promotes evil practices:
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Each religion more or less patronise one or other forms of evil practices. Animal sacrifice, human sacrifice, custom of Sati, suicide, un touch ability etc. prevailed in different societies because of religious faith.
3. It is a source of exploitation:
Marx argued that religion is a source of exploitation. In the name of God or religion one section of the society exploits others. It misguides the exploited with the idea that they are destined to suffer and others are fortunate to enjoy. They believe that God has made them so and other than His mercy none can alter. Likewise, people become the victims of exploitation.
4. It encourages communalism:
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Religion sometimes creates intolerance and forms the root of mistrust, jealously and hatred. All these conditions encourage conflict between various religious groups and ultimately give rise to the problem of communalism. History has witnessed communal riots between Hindus and Muslims in Indian and Roman Catholics and Protestants in England.