Religious implications for international business

Religion is one of the main determinants of culture; it has a lot of leverage on the way that influences people’s environment, behavior and attitudes. It involves shared beliefs in what is a sacred and moral principle that shapes attitudes.  The function of religion is to approve social arrangements, providing a sense of understanding and belonging.

According to Weber in Christianity work and wealth creation was the driven force of capitalism.

The Islam objective is to embrace way of life and act based on social justice and equity.

Hinduism focuses on the importance of achieving spiritual growth and development, refusing material and physical existences.

Buddhism underlines the importance of spiritual achievement.

Confucianism states common interests over personal ones.

What is the dominant religion in Colombia? What are the religious implications for doing business here? Give examples.

Catholicism is the main dominant religion in Colombia which embraces around 80% of the population. Business used to be well tied to the economic principles, but in recent years religion and businesses are separated, so religion has a low degree of influence over business. Although is important to have in mind that during the Holly week, butchers and meat industries get pretty affected due to the fact that consumers modify their eating habits and manners to keep certain religious codes of behavior.

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