Understanding Religious Diversity in a Plural World: The Interpretive Approach

Abstract

In today’s complex and plural world, there has been, particularly in western cultures, an identifiable change in peoples’ relationships with religious traditions. Some of these changes have also permeated non-western cultural traditions as they have been exposed to and influenced by television and other media that is dominated by western life styles and contexts. A corresponding movement is a vital resurgence of interest in human spirituality. Traditionally, spirituality has resided and been contained within religious frameworks but while the links between the two areas are still acknowledged by many in the contemporary world, spirituality is perceived by some as an aspect of human life that is distinct from religion. Consequently, many are searching for meaning within and without religious traditions today and seeking answers to ethical and moral questions that have been generated by the knowledge and technological explosion. One outcome is the renewed interest in the religious, spiritual and moral dimensions of education throughout the life cycle. This International Handbook presents the research and professional practice of scholars who are daily engaged in the consideration of these dimensions in education. The result is a collection of essays which reflects the discipline, in all of its internationality, as it as today. Embedded within the chapters is also an agenda for the future, where the religious, moral and spiritual dimensions in education are proposed as an exciting and challenging way forward for educators at all levels in society. As well, it offers a vision for the emergence of a peaceful and just world.