Page 194 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

4. Objectives of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to examine the influence of colonialism
on the religious landscape of Sri Lanka and its impact on inclusivity. The study

will aim to achieve the following specific objectives:

• To explore the ways in which British colonialism shaped the religious

identity of Sri Lanka, particularly in relation to the development of
Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

• To examine the policies and practices of British colonialism with
respect to different religious communities in Sri Lanka and to assess

how these contributed to the marginalization of certain groups.

• To identify the consequences of the legacy of colonialism for the
ability of different religious communities to coexist in a pluralistic and

inclusive society.
• To suggest ways in which this situation can be addressed and to

contribute to the development of more inclusive and equitable

approaches to religious diversity in Sri Lanka and beyond.

By achieving these objectives, this study seeks to contribute to a better

understanding of the factors that have contributed to the marginalisation of
certain religious communities in Sri Lanka and to suggest ways in which this

situation can be addressed. The study aims to make a significant contribution
to the academic literature on the impact of colonialism on the religious

landscape of Sri Lanka and to inform policy and practice in the field of
religious diversity and inclusivity. Ultimately, the study aims to contribute to
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