Multani 1

“Pluralism in Religion”

RELS 131 - World Religions

Danielle LaGrone

Kiranjeet Multani, 20350822

July 26, 2023

 Multani 2

Throughout our enlightening course on world religions, we have embarked on a

transformative journey of exploration, delving into the rich tapestry of religious diversity that

shapes our global landscape. As students and scholars of religion, our objective has been to seek

objectivity while appreciating our unique perspectives. Among the critical themes that emerge

from our study of global religious life is Pluralism, a response to navigate the multitude of

religious beliefs in our interconnected world. Giuseppe Giordan, a prominent scholar, highlights

that Pluralism has shifted the sociological debate from opposing perspectives on religious revival

to a more comprehensive framework that explains the contemporary religious and spiritual

landscape (Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014). Pluralism allows us to understand the complexities of

religious phenomena in our modern era while recognizing that it encompasses diverse and

heterogeneous elements (Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014). It is crucial to differentiate the

normative-regulatory level of Pluralism from the empirical diversity it embraces (Giordan &

Enzo Pace, 2014). In this essay, we delve deeper into the concept of Pluralism, examining its

feasibility and significance in fostering understanding, empathy, and cooperation among diverse

religious communities.

Pluralism, as defined by Professor Diana L. Eck from the Harvard Pluralism Project,

transcends the mere acceptance of diversity; it involves energetic engagement with it (The

Pluralism Project, 2023). It calls for moving beyond superficial coexistence to foster meaningful

interactions and connections among religious communities. Eck emphasizes engaging with

diverse religious perspectives actively: "Pluralism is not just the fact of diversity, but how we

respond to it" (The Pluralism Project, 2023). As Professor Eck reflects on her Christian faith, she

emphasizes that the essence of the good news lies in reaching out to neighbours, strangers, and

even enemies in a spirit of love and understanding (The University of Edinburgh, 2009); This
 Multani 3

exemplifies the core principles of Pluralism, urging us to transcend the boundaries of tradition,

ethnicity, and social standing to connect with others genuinely: "As a Christian, I might turn to

the Gospels and discover that this good news is not in the first instance about ideas or dogmas; it

is about relationships that transcend boundaries" (The University of Edinburgh, 2009).

Historical examples like the 1893 and 1993 Parliaments of World Religions demonstrate

Pluralism is possible and essential (The Pluralism Project, 2020c). These groundbreaking events

brought together religious leaders and communities from diverse traditions to engage in dialogue

and mutual understanding. In 1893, the World Parliament of Religions convened in Chicago to

foster unity among world religious leaders (The Pluralism Project, 2020a). The event provided

an opportunity for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Jews, Protestants, Catholics, and others to meet and

share their beliefs (The Pluralism Project, 2020a). The 1893 Parliament of World Religions

aimed at promoting tolerance and acceptance of diverse religious paths. Swami Vivekananda, a

Hindu monk, delivered a speech that echoed the call for embracing diversity: "Sectarianism,

bigotry, and its horrible descendant fanaticism have long possessed this beautiful Earth" (The

Pluralism Project, 2020a). This historic gathering showcased the need for Pluralism as a response

to religious divisions and conflicts. The 1993 Parliament of World Religions aimed to be even

more religiously diverse, mirroring the changing religious landscape of Chicago and the United

States (The Pluralism Project, 2020b). The success of these gatherings showcased the potential

for religiously diverse groups to engage in constructive conversations and promote mutual

respect (The Pluralism Project, 2020b). The event recognized the importance of interfaith

cooperation and emphasized the shared values that unite us, regardless of religious background.

The "Declaration Toward a Global Ethic" from the 1993 Parliament reinforces the call for mutual

respect and understanding among diverse religious traditions: "We must treat others as we wish
 Multani 4

others to treat us" (The Pluralism Project, 2020b). This declaration underscores the spirit of

Pluralism, promoting cooperation and unity in a diverse world. The Parliament of World

Religions continues to be a driving force for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Since the 1993

Parliament, the Council for the Parliament of the World Religions has hosted six more

international parliaments in Cape Town, South Africa (1999); Barcelona, Spain (2004);

Melbourne, Australia (2009); Salt Lake City, USA (2015); and Toronto, Canada (2018)

(Pluralism Project) (The Pluralism Project, 2020b).

Pluralism, as articulated by Dr. Eck, involves recognizing and respecting religious diversity

while actively engaging in dialogue to build understanding and cooperation (The Pluralism

Project, 2023). According to the video, Pluralism does not imply relativism or the blurring of

distinct beliefs but calls for genuine engagement with the religious other, seeking common

ground while appreciating differences (The University of Edinburgh, 2009). Based on these

sources, it is evident that Pluralism is possible but also a necessary response to the diverse

religious landscape. The engagement and mutual respect advocated in these texts suggest

Pluralism can facilitate peaceful coexistence and bridge the divides between religious

communities (The Pluralism Project, 2020c). It involves recognizing and respecting religious

diversity while actively engaging in dialogue to build understanding and cooperation, seeking

common ground while appreciating differences (The Pluralism Project, 2020c).

To further explore the complexities of religious Pluralism, it is valuable to draw insights from

additional scholarly works. J.A. Beckford outlines four distinct but overlapping meanings of

religious Pluralism, stating that it includes "(a) empirical religious diversity, (b) normative ideas

about the positive value of religious diversity, (c) the frameworks of public policy, law and social

practices which recognize, accommodate, regulate and facilitate religious diversity, and (d) the
 Multani 5

social relational contexts of everyday interactions between individuals and groups in settings

where religious differences are considered relevant" (Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014). Beckford

emphasizes the importance of keeping these categories distinct for analytical purposes, as he

notes that "the tendency is to conflate them within a generic notion of pluralism" (Giordan &

Enzo Pace, 2014). Additionally, Fenggang Yang's research on degrees of religious plurality in

societies provides valuable insights into the different levels of religious diversity and the impact

of state regulation on religious competition. Yang explains that in a religious oligopoly, the ruling

power uses political force to support one or a few religions, which often leads to "religious

conflict, or even religious wars" as religious organizations and political forces vie for control

(Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014). In contrast, in religious Pluralism, the state does not interfere in

the competition among religions, allowing the religious market to be open to all comers, and any

religion may enter the fray and compete on equal grounds (Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014). Yang

highlights that religious Pluralism is not unregulated, as the state may still maintain order by

regulating aspects of religious practice that apply to all religions (Giordan & Enzo Pace, 2014).

By examining these diverse perspectives, a more comprehensive understanding of religious

Pluralism can be achieved, allowing for a nuanced exploration of its manifestations and

challenges worldwide.

During our course, we have encountered diverse religious traditions that exemplify the

profound depth of human spiritual expression. For instance, Hinduism, one of the oldest

religions, encompasses a vast array of beliefs and practices, including the worship of multiple

deities, rituals, and sacred texts (LaGrone, 2023). Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama,

teaches the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a guide to liberation from suffering.

Similarly, Islam, with its Five Pillars, emphasizes the importance of prayer, charity, and
 Multani 6

pilgrimage (LaGrone, 2023). These diverse religious traditions exemplify the multifaceted nature

of human spirituality and demonstrate that Pluralism is both feasible and necessary to honour the

unique contributions of each faith: "Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, Jews, Protestants, Catholics,

Unitarians, and adherents of the Shinto and Zoroastrian traditions met together for the first time

in modern history" (The Pluralism Project, 2020b). Engaging in interfaith dialogue has been a

fundamental aspect of our learning journey. Through these conversations, we have witnessed

firsthand the power of open communication and empathy in bridging gaps between religious

communities. According to Professor Eck, "The language of Pluralism is that of dialogue and

encounter, give and take, criticism and self-criticism. Dialogue means speaking and listening and

reveals common understandings and real differences" (The Pluralism Project, 2023). This

process fosters collaboration and promotes peaceful coexistence: "Dialogue does not mean

everyone at the 'table' will agree with one another. Pluralism involves the commitment to being

at the table — with one’s commitments" (The Pluralism Project, 2023). For instance, in

dialogues between Christians and Muslims, participants may discover shared values of

compassion and justice, fostering mutual respect despite theological disparities (LaGrone, 2023).

Our course has also catalyzed challenging stereotypes and misconceptions about various

religious traditions (LaGrone, 2023). For example, learning about Islam has allowed us to

discern the vast diversity within the Muslim community, encompassing followers from different

cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and practices (LaGrone, 2023). This understanding undermines

divisive narratives and fosters empathy and respect for the complexities of religious traditions:

"Learning about the 1893 and 1993 Parliaments of World Religions, which brought together

diverse religious leaders and communities, showcases the potential for religiously diverse groups
 Multani 7

to engage in constructive conversations and promote mutual respect" (The Pluralism Project,

2020c).

In conclusion, Pluralism is possible and necessary for promoting understanding, empathy, and

cooperation among diverse religious communities. Learning about world religions serves as a

foundation for embracing Pluralism by breaking down barriers and dispelling misconceptions.

Engaging in interfaith dialogue and understanding the multifaceted nature of religious traditions

allows us to appreciate the richness of human spiritual expression. Moreover, this course on

world religions has equipped us with the tools to challenge prejudice and foster empathy,

understanding, and respect for religious diversity. Through active engagement with diversity and

continuous learning about world religions, we can foster a more inclusive and empathetic world

for generations to come: "Pluralism, as exemplified by historic Parliaments of World Religions,

offers a vision of a harmonious global community where individuals from different religious

traditions can coexist in peace and mutual respect" (The Pluralism Project, 2020b). Embracing

Pluralism is crucial for building a just and sustainable world where religious diversity is

celebrated as a source of strength and enrichment. As we move forward, let us embrace pluralism

as a guiding principle, promoting unity through active engagement with the diverse religious

expressions that enrich our global community. By fostering Pluralism, we can work towards a

future where the energetic engagement with diversity brings us closer together as a harmonious

global family, united in our differences and shared humanity.

 Multani 8

Bibliography

Giordan, G., & Enzo Pace. (2014). Religious Pluralism : Framing Religious Diversity in the

Contemporary World. Cham: Springer International Publishing.

LaGrone, D. (2023). RELS 131 - World Religions/Religious Worlds. Retrieved from OnQ

website: https://onq.queensu.ca/d2l/home/783809

The Pluralism Project. (2020a). From Diversity to Pluralism. Retrieved from pluralism.org

website: https://pluralism.org/from-diversity-to-pluralism

The Pluralism Project. (2020b). Parliament of Religions, 1893. Retrieved from pluralism.org

website: https://pluralism.org/parliament-of-religions-1893

The Pluralism Project. (2020c). Parliament of religions, 1993 and beyond. Retrieved July 26,

2023, from pluralism.org website:

https://pluralism.org/parliament-of-religions-1993-and-beyond#:~:text=Just%20as%20the

%201893%20Parliament

The Pluralism Project. (2023). The Pluralism Project. Retrieved from pluralism.org website:

https://pluralism.org/about

The University of Edinburgh. (2009). Diana Eck - Religious Views of Religious Pluralism I.

Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cR_tlcoNVF4