(i) From the early 19th century, there were intense debates around religious issues. Different groups confronted the changes happening within colonial society in different ways and offered a variety of new interpretations of the beliefs of different religions. (ii) Some criticised existing practices and campaigned for reform, while others countered the arguments of reformers. These debates were carried out in public and in print. (iii) Printed tracts and newspaper not only spread the new ideas, but they shaped the nature of the debate. (iv) A wider public could now participate in these public discussions and express their views. New ideas emerged through these clashes of opinions.