Final answer:
True, religion continues to be a forceful influence on ethical systems, shaping economics, law, personal behavior, and societal norms through both adherence to religious precepts and cultural evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Religion indeed continues to be a forceful influence on ethical systems. Religious traditions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam base their ethical principles on beliefs that include the existence of a deity. This influence extends across various aspects of life, including economics, law, and personal behavior. While the modern era has seen a decline in the strict adherence to religious practices, the ethical and moral frameworks derived from religion still permeate societies.
For example, religious dictates on charging interest have historically influenced the banking industry, dietary restrictions determine which industries thrive in certain regions, and the Protestant work ethic impacts business practices even today. Moreover, religious events shape societal norms, such as the observation of holidays within non-religious institutions.
In summary, whether through direct adherence to religious precepts or through the cultural norms that have evolved from religious beliefs, the impact of religion on ethical systems remains significant, shaping behaviors and societal structures in discernible ways.