Final answer:
A religious movement might inspire social reform because religious teachings often highlight compassion and justice. Leaders urge followers to engage in societal improvements, and historical movements like the social gospel have shown religion's impact on reform efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
A religious movement might lead people to work for social reform for several reasons. One primary reason is that religious teachings often emphasize the importance of compassion and helping others, inspiring individuals to work towards creating a just and equal society. Furthermore, religious leaders may encourage their followers to actively engage in improving societal conditions, instigating the desire for social reform. In many religious texts and scriptures, there are advocations for justice and equality, motivating believers to work towards these goals. Additionally, religious communities usually foster a strong sense of community and collective responsibility, which can lead members to work together for social change. Historical examples demonstrate how religion has been a catalyst for social change. The social gospel movement is a notable instance where religious institutions became involved in addressing social issues such as poverty, labor reform, and income inequality. This movement emphasized applying Christian ethics to society and inspired numerous efforts like the settlement movement. Similarly, during the Protestant Reformation, the shift in religious perspectives brought on by Martin Luther's 95 Theses spurred significant changes across Western civilization. The involvement of religious movements in education reform also highlights the intersection between spiritual convictions and social betterment. Ultimately, the convergence of religious conviction with social activism can be a powerful force in shaping society and driving reforms that align with ethical and moral principles espoused by various faiths.