Final answer:
Technological innovation has led to major changes in religion by making religious texts more accessible, facilitating major movements like the Protestant Reformation, and altering religious practices with modern communication technologies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Technological innovation has played a pivotal role in shaping religious practices and beliefs throughout history. The invention of the Gutenberg printing press magnified the reach of religious texts such as the Christian Bible, empowering everyday people to interpret texts and contribute to the diversification and evolution of religious beliefs. This democratization of religious knowledge laid the groundwork for Martin Luther's 95 Theses, which spurred the Protestant Reformation and marked a significant social and religious upheaval in Western civilization.
Similarly, the Neolithic Revolution's advancements in agriculture produced significant changes in religious expression. The emergence of priestly classes and the construction of elaborate religious monuments signified a shift towards organized religions that focused more on agricultural fertility and deities associated with it, as opposed to the animistic traditions of pre-agricultural societies.
Technological advancements continue to shape religious practices in modern times. For instance, globalization fueled by tech advancements has spread religious ideas and practices worldwide. Moreover, innovations such as the internet and social media platforms have altered the way religious communities engage, allowing for immediate communication and the broadcasting of religious services, leading to phenomena like the rise of megachurches.