In what way can religion serve as a source of social change?

Religion can serve as a source of social change primarily by inspiring communities to advocate for justice. Throughout history, many religious movements have been at the forefront of social change, emphasizing values such as compassion, equity, and social justice. These values often motivate followers to address injustices and advocate for the marginalized or oppressed in society.

For example, numerous social movements have been rooted in religious beliefs that call for the better treatment of disadvantaged groups. Leaders and followers draw upon their faith traditions to promote ethical practices and engage in activism that seeks to reshape societal norms and laws, driving reforms in areas like civil rights, poverty alleviation, and environmental stewardship.

With regard to the other options, promoting isolation from the larger society would hinder social change by creating barriers rather than fostering engagement and advocacy. Maintaining existing power structures and discouraging moral reforms directly contradicts the transformative potential that religious beliefs can inspire, as they tend to support the status quo rather than challenge it.