In the midst of a diverse society, communities tend to bind individuals to many established standards and stereotypes. We can compare the poor to the rich, the black woman to the white and, even in the United States of America, the Christian family to the Muslim one. Despite the many unique characteristics of individuals and communities, it is the institution of religion that places strongholds on individuality, thus fueling conformity. Religious communities expect their members to take a certain form, to fit a particular mold; restriction essentially diminishes individuality by accepting conformity. In the twenty-first century, a time that encourages creativity and individuality, it is the religious institution that ultimately eschews individualism by promoting conformity through religious group membership, coercion of viewpoints, and oppression of "different" points of view. and the ostracism of individuals who hold different beliefs. While there are many religions, each is essentially a group unto itself. Society willingly uses labels such as Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jewish, etc. to represent its many religious groups and to identify members within the group. Belonging to a religious group is the initial stage of conformism. The term “group” alludes to commonalities; the shared likes and dislikes of a religious group. In a religious sense, members' beliefs and convictions are the core of the group; however, the simple aspect of grouping eschews individuality by embracing common beliefs over individual ones. In “Ingroup and Outgroup” by David G. Myers, he points out that “In short, it appears that people's attitudes are formed in part as mirror images of …… middle of paper …… aspect for individuals who practice or follow a religion , does adding a form of belonging really outweigh the right to act freely as an individual? Religion is like a photocopier… it has a mission and aims to reflect its purpose and beliefs without blemishes or blemishes, blemishes which in this case signify individuality. In an attempt to transform their followers into ideal group members, religions place restrictions on individuality. And in any case, isn't it precisely the individuality and eccentricity of the "divine beings" that constitute the very foundation of religion? Works Cited Emerson, Ralph Waldo. Self-sufficiency. 7th ed. Littleton: Tapestry, 2011. 97-99. Print.Myers, David G. Ingroup and Outgroup. 7th ed. Littleton: Tapestry, 2011. 113-115. Print.Winter, David Brian. But I can believe this. 7th ed. Littleton: Tapestry, 2011. 31. Print.