I am currently working on a range of projects which includes the dialogue between religion and atheism, intercultural/ interreligious hermeneutics, interreligious relations in South East Asia, and the dialogue of life. Paul Hedges is Associate Professor of Interreligious Studies in the Studies in Inter-Religious Relations in Plural Societies programme at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Before taking up this post he was Reader in Interreligious Studies, University of Winchester, UK.
This book shows how scholarly studies of prejudice, identity formation, and genocide studies can ... more This book shows how scholarly studies of prejudice, identity formation, and genocide studies can shed light on global examples of religious hatred. The book is divided into four parts, focusing respectively on: theories of prejudice and violence; historical developments of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and race; contemporary Western antisemitism and Islamophobia; and, prejudices beyond the West in the Islamic, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions. Each part ends with a special focus section.
Key features include: - A compelling synthesis of theories of prejudice, identity, and hatred to explain Islamophobia and antisemitism. - An innovative theory of human violence and genocide which explains the link to prejudice. - Case studies of both Western antisemitism and Islamophobia in history and today, alongside global studies of Islamic antisemitism and Hindu and Buddhist Islamophobia - Integrates discussion of race and racialisation as aspects of Islamophobic and antisemitic prejudice in relation to their framing in religious discourses. - Accessible for general readers and students, it can be employed as a textbook for students or read with benefit by scholars for its novel synthesis and theories.
The book focuses on antisemitism and Islamophobia, both in the West and beyond, including examples of prejudices and hatred in the Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Drawing on examples from Europe, North America, MENA, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa, Paul Hedges points to common patterns, while identifying the specifics of local context. Religious Hatred is an essential guide for understanding the historical origins of religious hatred, the manifestations of this hatred across diverse religious and cultural contexts, and the strategies employed by activists and peacemakers to overcome this hatred.
The nature and field of comparative theology is mapped with particular attention to the tradition... more The nature and field of comparative theology is mapped with particular attention to the tradition associated with Francis Clooney but noting the global and wider context of theology in a comparative mode. There are four main parts. Firstly, mapping the current field and exploring its methodological and theological aspects, with particular attention to global and intercultural theologies, comparative religion, and the theology of religions. Secondly, considering what the deconstruction of religion means for comparative theology and how the term " religion " may be deployed and understood after this. It also takes into consideration turns to lived and material religion. Thirdly, issues of power, representation, and the subaltern are considered, including the place of feminist and queer theory in comparative theology. Finally, an original and constructive discussion on philosophical hermeneutics, as well as the way certain hermeneutical lenses can bring issues into focus for the comparative theologian, is offered. The text notes key trends, develops original models of practice and method, and picks out and discusses critical issues and lacunae within the field.
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, due 2016
Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and... more Jessica Kingsley Publishers, due 2016 Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and atheism, focusing upon Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and other, e.g. Pagan, traditions in their encounter with secularism and atheism. It explores such issues as faith and reason, science and religion, gender and sexuality, 'texts of terror', and the use and abuse of arguments, evidence, and concepts.
Co-edited with Elizabeth Harris and Shanthikumar Hettiararchi, Brill, Currents of Encounter Serie... more Co-edited with Elizabeth Harris and Shanthikumar Hettiararchi, Brill, Currents of Encounter Series, 2016
Contents:
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogu... more Contents:
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogue
Paul Hedges, 2 The Contemporary Context of Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Reuven Firestone, 3 Can Those Chosen by God Dialogue with Others
Khaleel Mohammed, 4 Lay, Institutional, academic
Anne Hege Grung, 5 Gender and Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Shirin Shafaie, 6 War, Peace and Nuclear Terror
Yusuff Amuda, 7 Shari'ah and Religious Tolerance for the Protection of Children: A Case Study of Nigerian Muslims and Christians
Jean-Daniel Kabati, 8 Peace-building through Interfaith Dialogue: The Democratic Republic of Congo Model
Douglas 9, Muslim Initiative and Christian Response: The Future of Dialogue
Ray Gaston, 10 Christian Responses to Islamophobia
Clinton Bennett, 11 Christian-Muslim Relations in the US post 9/11
Clare Amos, 12 Vatican and World Council of Churches Initiatives
General Editor:
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory... more General Editor:
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory Board:
James Miller
Khaleel Mohammed
Musa Dube
Eloisa Martin
Marion Maddox
Makarand Paranjape
Table of Contents:
Volume 1: Theoretical and Academic Debates
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: What is Religion? Or, What is it We’re Talking About?
Anna S. King and Paul Hedges
Chapter 2: Is the Study of Religion Religious? How to Study Religion and Who Studies Religion
Paul Hedges and Anna S. King
Chapter 3: Charisma, Scriptures, Revelation, Texts: Sources of Religious Authority
Christina Welch and Paul Hedges
Chapter 4: Religion and Embodiment: Religion and the (Latin-American) Bodies that Practice it
Renée de la Torre
Chapter 5: Religion, Commodification and Consumerism
Vineeta Singh
Chapter 6: Terror/ism and Violence in the Name of God
Lucien van Liere
Chapter 7: Belonging, Behaving, Believing, Becoming: Religion and Identity
Paul Hedges and Angela CoCo
Chapter 8: Why are there Many Gods? Religious Diversity and its Challenges
Paul Hedges
Chapter 9: Is Religion Dying? Secularization and Other Religious Trends in the World Today
Jayeel Serrano Cornelio
Chapter 10: Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Buddhist: Can you have a Multiple Religious Identity?
Rose Drew
Chapter 11: Empires and Religions: Colonialism, Post-colonialism, and Orientalism
Clinton Bennett
Volume 2: Debates in the Public Square and Ethical Issues
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: Women in Religion: Does Gender Matter?
Kayla Wheeler
Chapter 2: Friend or Foe? Current Debates in Science and Religion
Allison P. Coudert
Chapter 3: Sexuality and Religion: Homosexuality and Religious Values
Maria das Dores Campos Machado
Chapter 4: Religion and Human Rights: Conflicts and Connections
Nazila Ghanea and Farrah Ahmed
Chapter 5: The New Atheists
Ian Markham and Chrstine Faulstich
Chapter 6: Censorship, Free Speech and Religion
Christoph Baumgartner
Chapter 7: Is Religion Environmentally Friendly: Connecting Religion and Ecology
James Miller
Chapter 8: Religion and Culture: Religious Artefacts as T-shirts, Toys and Museum Exhibits
Christina Welch
Chapter 9: Are Religions Prejudiced? Religion and Disability
Susannah Cornwall
Chapter 10: Religion, Nationalism, and International Relations
Enzo Pace
Chapter 11: Religion and Politics
Marion Maddox
Chapter 12: Riots, Mass Casualities, and Religious Hatred: Countering Anti-cosmopolitan Terror through Intercultural and Interreligious Understanding
Anna Halafoff
Volume 3: Specific Issues and Case Studies
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: The Rise of Fundamentalisms
Christopher van de Krogt
Chapter 2: Loving the “Enemy”: An alternative Narrative on Jewish-Muslim Relations
Yafiah Randall
Chapter 3: Buddhism, Nationalism, and Violence in Asia
Jude Lal Fernando
Chapter 4: Religion and Bioethics: Human Genetics and Embryo Research
Neil Messer
Chapter 5: What do Americans think of Muslims?: The 9/11 Islamic Community Centre
Khaleel Mohammed
Chapter 6: New Religious Movements, “Cults”, and the State
Ryan J. T. Adams
Chapter 7: Shariah Law and Women in Islam
Adis Duderjia
Chapter 8: Can Christianity take New Forms? Christianity in New Cultural Contexts
James Cox
Chapter 9: New Religious Movements in Global Context
Nobutaka Inoue
Chapter 10: Scandals
Marion Maddox
Chapter 11: Can Christians Engage in non-Christian Practices? Eastern Meditations and Contemplative Prayer
Fabrice Blée
This book provides an introduction to the current state of the field for those new to interreligi... more This book provides an introduction to the current state of the field for those new to interreligious dialogue and the theology of religions, as well as providing insights and new concepts that will be of interest to specialists. In particular, the current deadlock between pluralist and particularist approaches is re-imagined, and a strong argument for radical openness to the religious Other is advanced, based upon the resources of the Christian heritage. Also explored are many issues pertaining to debates in this area which are not always addressed, such as religious identity and definitions of religion. The book draws inspiration from many sources including intercultural theology, feminist theologies of religions, comparative theology, postcolonial identity theory, scholarly debates on the nature of religion, and biblical concepts of hospitality to outline its new approach. It concludes that we must seek mutual fulfilment with religious Others while maintaining Christian integrity. It also addresses the problems this involves when seeking ethical partnership across religious boundaries. No easy answers are given, however, a vision for radical openness based on Jesus’ example, the Christian heritage, and contemporary scholarship is endorsed.
This paper explores the discourse and framing of interreligious dialogue in relation to internati... more This paper explores the discourse and framing of interreligious dialogue in relation to international relations and global civil society movements. Three organisations, or events, are studied: the King Abdullah International Centre for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue (KAICIID); the shadow interfaith summit of the G8/G20 meetings (G8/20 IFS); and, Singapore's International Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS). Track 1.5 diplomacy is used as a rubric to discuss these, while focus is put upon the discourse and framing of them rather than simply describing what they are or do. Criticisms of each are raised, including the extent to which they may simply be public relations exercises, ineffective talking shops, or acts of exclusion. However, the aim is not to highlight weaknesses but offer both an academic analysis and critique, and suggest how and where they may be effective within the sphere they operate. To this end the possibility of quantifying their success is addressed, and five areas for the prospects of such organisations or events are laid out to conclude the paper.
The colonial and Western heritage of Islamophobia influences the way that Muslims are perceived t... more The colonial and Western heritage of Islamophobia influences the way that Muslims are perceived today in Singapore. Focusing upon structural and governmental discourses, rather than personal or day-today instances, I argue that while a Southeast Asian Islamophobia will be distinct from a Western one, we must be aware of this heritage and the way it manifests within current perceptions of Muslims. This forms a backdrop for understanding how Muslims relate to the wider society and each other within contemporary secular nation states. 'precarious toleration'. With regards to governance of the Muslim population, beyond what has been noted above, MUIS (Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura, or Singapore Muslim Council, a government statutory body) has oversight for the wellbeing of the Malay-Muslim community, and incorporates the Office of the Mufti and the Fatwa Board. MUIS also
Journal of the British Association for the Study of Religions, 2023
Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) is neither a simple concept, nor a simple practice. Even before we ... more Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) is neither a simple concept, nor a simple practice. Even before we consider the issues of such things as the ethics, hermeneutics, and praxis of understanding across diverse worlds of meaning, it is something that is enacted and performed according to social, cultural, and political discourses. The agendas of participants, sponsors, and any supposed audience all have consequences for the performativity of IRD. This paper will specifically focus on the concept of performance in relation to IRD in the political sphere, most particularly the way that IRD has become part of international relations. Attention will be given to typologies and framings of IRD, including what does, or does not, get classed as being IRD, or "true" dialogue, but herein no definition is prescribed, taking a broad approach. We will look at some specific examples of IRD in relation to track 1.5 diplomacy, noting how it relates to a securitised framing of dialogue and to what Oddbjørn Leirvik has termed "necessary dialogue". The whole paper will be framed within the concept of performance, or performativity, which will be the main analytical approach, but taking a wider critical religious studies approach to considering how IRD is performed, or operates, within international relations.
This book shows how scholarly studies of prejudice, identity formation, and genocide studies can ... more This book shows how scholarly studies of prejudice, identity formation, and genocide studies can shed light on global examples of religious hatred. The book is divided into four parts, focusing respectively on: theories of prejudice and violence; historical developments of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and race; contemporary Western antisemitism and Islamophobia; and, prejudices beyond the West in the Islamic, Buddhist, and Hindu traditions. Each part ends with a special focus section.
Key features include: - A compelling synthesis of theories of prejudice, identity, and hatred to explain Islamophobia and antisemitism. - An innovative theory of human violence and genocide which explains the link to prejudice. - Case studies of both Western antisemitism and Islamophobia in history and today, alongside global studies of Islamic antisemitism and Hindu and Buddhist Islamophobia - Integrates discussion of race and racialisation as aspects of Islamophobic and antisemitic prejudice in relation to their framing in religious discourses. - Accessible for general readers and students, it can be employed as a textbook for students or read with benefit by scholars for its novel synthesis and theories.
The book focuses on antisemitism and Islamophobia, both in the West and beyond, including examples of prejudices and hatred in the Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Drawing on examples from Europe, North America, MENA, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa, Paul Hedges points to common patterns, while identifying the specifics of local context. Religious Hatred is an essential guide for understanding the historical origins of religious hatred, the manifestations of this hatred across diverse religious and cultural contexts, and the strategies employed by activists and peacemakers to overcome this hatred.
The nature and field of comparative theology is mapped with particular attention to the tradition... more The nature and field of comparative theology is mapped with particular attention to the tradition associated with Francis Clooney but noting the global and wider context of theology in a comparative mode. There are four main parts. Firstly, mapping the current field and exploring its methodological and theological aspects, with particular attention to global and intercultural theologies, comparative religion, and the theology of religions. Secondly, considering what the deconstruction of religion means for comparative theology and how the term " religion " may be deployed and understood after this. It also takes into consideration turns to lived and material religion. Thirdly, issues of power, representation, and the subaltern are considered, including the place of feminist and queer theory in comparative theology. Finally, an original and constructive discussion on philosophical hermeneutics, as well as the way certain hermeneutical lenses can bring issues into focus for the comparative theologian, is offered. The text notes key trends, develops original models of practice and method, and picks out and discusses critical issues and lacunae within the field.
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, due 2016
Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and... more Jessica Kingsley Publishers, due 2016 Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and atheism, focusing upon Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and other, e.g. Pagan, traditions in their encounter with secularism and atheism. It explores such issues as faith and reason, science and religion, gender and sexuality, 'texts of terror', and the use and abuse of arguments, evidence, and concepts.
Co-edited with Elizabeth Harris and Shanthikumar Hettiararchi, Brill, Currents of Encounter Serie... more Co-edited with Elizabeth Harris and Shanthikumar Hettiararchi, Brill, Currents of Encounter Series, 2016
Contents:
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogu... more Contents:
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogue
Paul Hedges, 2 The Contemporary Context of Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Reuven Firestone, 3 Can Those Chosen by God Dialogue with Others
Khaleel Mohammed, 4 Lay, Institutional, academic
Anne Hege Grung, 5 Gender and Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Shirin Shafaie, 6 War, Peace and Nuclear Terror
Yusuff Amuda, 7 Shari'ah and Religious Tolerance for the Protection of Children: A Case Study of Nigerian Muslims and Christians
Jean-Daniel Kabati, 8 Peace-building through Interfaith Dialogue: The Democratic Republic of Congo Model
Douglas 9, Muslim Initiative and Christian Response: The Future of Dialogue
Ray Gaston, 10 Christian Responses to Islamophobia
Clinton Bennett, 11 Christian-Muslim Relations in the US post 9/11
Clare Amos, 12 Vatican and World Council of Churches Initiatives
General Editor:
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory... more General Editor:
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory Board:
James Miller
Khaleel Mohammed
Musa Dube
Eloisa Martin
Marion Maddox
Makarand Paranjape
Table of Contents:
Volume 1: Theoretical and Academic Debates
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: What is Religion? Or, What is it We’re Talking About?
Anna S. King and Paul Hedges
Chapter 2: Is the Study of Religion Religious? How to Study Religion and Who Studies Religion
Paul Hedges and Anna S. King
Chapter 3: Charisma, Scriptures, Revelation, Texts: Sources of Religious Authority
Christina Welch and Paul Hedges
Chapter 4: Religion and Embodiment: Religion and the (Latin-American) Bodies that Practice it
Renée de la Torre
Chapter 5: Religion, Commodification and Consumerism
Vineeta Singh
Chapter 6: Terror/ism and Violence in the Name of God
Lucien van Liere
Chapter 7: Belonging, Behaving, Believing, Becoming: Religion and Identity
Paul Hedges and Angela CoCo
Chapter 8: Why are there Many Gods? Religious Diversity and its Challenges
Paul Hedges
Chapter 9: Is Religion Dying? Secularization and Other Religious Trends in the World Today
Jayeel Serrano Cornelio
Chapter 10: Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Buddhist: Can you have a Multiple Religious Identity?
Rose Drew
Chapter 11: Empires and Religions: Colonialism, Post-colonialism, and Orientalism
Clinton Bennett
Volume 2: Debates in the Public Square and Ethical Issues
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: Women in Religion: Does Gender Matter?
Kayla Wheeler
Chapter 2: Friend or Foe? Current Debates in Science and Religion
Allison P. Coudert
Chapter 3: Sexuality and Religion: Homosexuality and Religious Values
Maria das Dores Campos Machado
Chapter 4: Religion and Human Rights: Conflicts and Connections
Nazila Ghanea and Farrah Ahmed
Chapter 5: The New Atheists
Ian Markham and Chrstine Faulstich
Chapter 6: Censorship, Free Speech and Religion
Christoph Baumgartner
Chapter 7: Is Religion Environmentally Friendly: Connecting Religion and Ecology
James Miller
Chapter 8: Religion and Culture: Religious Artefacts as T-shirts, Toys and Museum Exhibits
Christina Welch
Chapter 9: Are Religions Prejudiced? Religion and Disability
Susannah Cornwall
Chapter 10: Religion, Nationalism, and International Relations
Enzo Pace
Chapter 11: Religion and Politics
Marion Maddox
Chapter 12: Riots, Mass Casualities, and Religious Hatred: Countering Anti-cosmopolitan Terror through Intercultural and Interreligious Understanding
Anna Halafoff
Volume 3: Specific Issues and Case Studies
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: The Rise of Fundamentalisms
Christopher van de Krogt
Chapter 2: Loving the “Enemy”: An alternative Narrative on Jewish-Muslim Relations
Yafiah Randall
Chapter 3: Buddhism, Nationalism, and Violence in Asia
Jude Lal Fernando
Chapter 4: Religion and Bioethics: Human Genetics and Embryo Research
Neil Messer
Chapter 5: What do Americans think of Muslims?: The 9/11 Islamic Community Centre
Khaleel Mohammed
Chapter 6: New Religious Movements, “Cults”, and the State
Ryan J. T. Adams
Chapter 7: Shariah Law and Women in Islam
Adis Duderjia
Chapter 8: Can Christianity take New Forms? Christianity in New Cultural Contexts
James Cox
Chapter 9: New Religious Movements in Global Context
Nobutaka Inoue
Chapter 10: Scandals
Marion Maddox
Chapter 11: Can Christians Engage in non-Christian Practices? Eastern Meditations and Contemplative Prayer
Fabrice Blée
This book provides an introduction to the current state of the field for those new to interreligi... more This book provides an introduction to the current state of the field for those new to interreligious dialogue and the theology of religions, as well as providing insights and new concepts that will be of interest to specialists. In particular, the current deadlock between pluralist and particularist approaches is re-imagined, and a strong argument for radical openness to the religious Other is advanced, based upon the resources of the Christian heritage. Also explored are many issues pertaining to debates in this area which are not always addressed, such as religious identity and definitions of religion. The book draws inspiration from many sources including intercultural theology, feminist theologies of religions, comparative theology, postcolonial identity theory, scholarly debates on the nature of religion, and biblical concepts of hospitality to outline its new approach. It concludes that we must seek mutual fulfilment with religious Others while maintaining Christian integrity. It also addresses the problems this involves when seeking ethical partnership across religious boundaries. No easy answers are given, however, a vision for radical openness based on Jesus’ example, the Christian heritage, and contemporary scholarship is endorsed.
This paper explores the discourse and framing of interreligious dialogue in relation to internati... more This paper explores the discourse and framing of interreligious dialogue in relation to international relations and global civil society movements. Three organisations, or events, are studied: the King Abdullah International Centre for Intercultural and Interreligious Dialogue (KAICIID); the shadow interfaith summit of the G8/G20 meetings (G8/20 IFS); and, Singapore's International Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS). Track 1.5 diplomacy is used as a rubric to discuss these, while focus is put upon the discourse and framing of them rather than simply describing what they are or do. Criticisms of each are raised, including the extent to which they may simply be public relations exercises, ineffective talking shops, or acts of exclusion. However, the aim is not to highlight weaknesses but offer both an academic analysis and critique, and suggest how and where they may be effective within the sphere they operate. To this end the possibility of quantifying their success is addressed, and five areas for the prospects of such organisations or events are laid out to conclude the paper.
The colonial and Western heritage of Islamophobia influences the way that Muslims are perceived t... more The colonial and Western heritage of Islamophobia influences the way that Muslims are perceived today in Singapore. Focusing upon structural and governmental discourses, rather than personal or day-today instances, I argue that while a Southeast Asian Islamophobia will be distinct from a Western one, we must be aware of this heritage and the way it manifests within current perceptions of Muslims. This forms a backdrop for understanding how Muslims relate to the wider society and each other within contemporary secular nation states. 'precarious toleration'. With regards to governance of the Muslim population, beyond what has been noted above, MUIS (Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura, or Singapore Muslim Council, a government statutory body) has oversight for the wellbeing of the Malay-Muslim community, and incorporates the Office of the Mufti and the Fatwa Board. MUIS also
Journal of the British Association for the Study of Religions, 2023
Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) is neither a simple concept, nor a simple practice. Even before we ... more Interreligious Dialogue (IRD) is neither a simple concept, nor a simple practice. Even before we consider the issues of such things as the ethics, hermeneutics, and praxis of understanding across diverse worlds of meaning, it is something that is enacted and performed according to social, cultural, and political discourses. The agendas of participants, sponsors, and any supposed audience all have consequences for the performativity of IRD. This paper will specifically focus on the concept of performance in relation to IRD in the political sphere, most particularly the way that IRD has become part of international relations. Attention will be given to typologies and framings of IRD, including what does, or does not, get classed as being IRD, or "true" dialogue, but herein no definition is prescribed, taking a broad approach. We will look at some specific examples of IRD in relation to track 1.5 diplomacy, noting how it relates to a securitised framing of dialogue and to what Oddbjørn Leirvik has termed "necessary dialogue". The whole paper will be framed within the concept of performance, or performativity, which will be the main analytical approach, but taking a wider critical religious studies approach to considering how IRD is performed, or operates, within international relations.
The South Asian Journal of Religion and Philosophy, 2021
A number of religious and philosophical figures and traditions have arguably shown an inadequate ... more A number of religious and philosophical figures and traditions have arguably shown an inadequate response to the Coronavirus (Covid19) pandemic. Thinking through some problems and challenges, a basis in a broadly modernist, progressive, or liberal theology is outlined which it is argued may justify understanding Jesus as a philosopher. This is placed in the context of a Christian response that seeks to be in dialogue with a wider world, including those with no religious or different religious identities. The paper also explicitly speaks about a particular global communal theological discussion that prompted a number of its insights and responses.
This paper argues that traditional Christology is intimately bond up with a triumphalist agenda t... more This paper argues that traditional Christology is intimately bond up with a triumphalist agenda that denies Jesus' Jewishness and is structurally Antisemitic. Taking an anti-racist stance, it argues that systemic rethinking of Christianity's theological resources is needed, which must be anti-Antisemitic and anti-racist. This, it is suggested, involves reconfiguring how we take on board Jesus' Jewishness in a post-Holocaust context, and recognising Jesus as a Jewish prophet. From this, it is tentatively suggested that rethinking the role of the Messiah involves understanding a Levinasian Messiah who does not come but calls upon us to act in a Messianic role before the Other as an ethical imperative.
This paper offers an overview of current literature and best practice in terms of promoting socia... more This paper offers an overview of current literature and best practice in terms of promoting social cohesion with a focus on how this relates to religious diversity. Its focus is Southeast Asia, but it explores this within a globalised context. It sets out some issues concerning how diversity is related to and experienced, before considering how we can conceptualise social cohesion in terms of religious diversity, offering three aspects as part of a contextual and down-to-earth descriptor. Tensions and issues which arise and counter social cohesion in contemporary societies are then noted, before postcolonial and decolonial theory is addressed as it may affect thinking through these issues. Finally, four themes that may be seen as key in promoting social cohesion are discussed: narratives, youth, dialogue, and leadership. The paper does not propose, within the limits of the space available, to offer a definitional survey of all issues; rather, it seeks to promote a contextualised debate and discussion of social cohesion in relation to religious diversity in the Southeast Asian context and to suggest a pathway towards thinking this.
This paper advances some ways in which Asian perspectives challenge the regnant discourse of comp... more This paper advances some ways in which Asian perspectives challenge the regnant discourse of comparative theology. It sets out some key aspects of the postcolonial critique of comparative theology, and shows how conceptions of “religion” in the discipline are often based in problematic Western paradigms. However, it also challenges any reified distinction of “Orient” and “Occident”. It is argued that if Asian comparative theology is to fulfil its potential it must not operate within existing dominant Western frames. The author suggests that a hermeneutical basis for comparative theology may be rethought through Asian lenses, and draws on the philosophy of Nāgārjuna to provide an example of this.
This paper explores the phenomenon of interreligious marriage in Singapore, based on a literature... more This paper explores the phenomenon of interreligious marriage in Singapore, based on a literature review and interviews with religious leaders and laypeople. The distinct nature of the Singapore context is noted, as well as the limits of the mainstream discussion which focuses upon the Abrahamic traditions in a Western context. The distinctive patterns of six different traditions are discussed (Buddhism, Catholic Christianity, Protestant Christianity, Daoism and Chinese folk religion, Hinduism, and Islam), as well as issues drawn from these patterns. The paper is primarily devoted to presenting an empirical overview from the interviews, and enters conceptual issues mainly in showing how the Singaporean (or Southeast Asian) context disrupts the standard Western-centric assumptions in the literature. Areas for further research are noted.
While classically posited as the separation of religion from public life, it is suggested that th... more While classically posited as the separation of religion from public life, it is suggested that the contemporary secular public sphere in multicultural contexts has become a habitat for interfaith dialogue. Looking at dynamics in classical secular theory as well as some recent theorists of secularism and multiculturalism, most particularly Jürgen Habermas, Charles Taylor, Tariq Modood, and Rajeev Bhargava, it is shown that far from being hostile to religion much of the practice of secularism is often entwined with particular discourses of religious norms. Using spatial theory, especially that of Lefebvre, four cameos from the UK, USA, Singapore, and India are used as indicative of the way that interfaith discourse is embedded in various aspects of the secular public sphere from governmental, through official Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), to grassroots levels such that as forum externum religion is accepted in this space as interfaith dialogue. It is argued that a conceptual linkage of interfaith motifs is, if not inherent, then at least embedded in the secular realm in the contemporary multicultural context.
" Ultimacy, " it is argued, is not an area that academic studies in theology nor the study of rel... more " Ultimacy, " it is argued, is not an area that academic studies in theology nor the study of religion can properly investigate; nevertheless, it is also illegitimate to argue therefore that claims to it are simply linguistic power plays. Using an autobiographical methodology, the author explores how their own " imagined " " mystical " experience and scholarly studies may shed light on approaching the study of religious experience, noting particularly work by Rudolf Otto, Robert Sharf, Gregory Shushan, and Ann Taves. Reflections are offered on studying religious experience, approaching ultimacy, and the relationship of theological and religious studies. Moreover, some critical and decolonial perspectives are brought to bear both on the author's own work, academic studies, and contemporary debates around studying what may be termed " mysticism " or religious experience. The author also argues that the autobiographical and reflexive model offered herein may be a useful perspective for scholarship in the study of religion.
Paper from special edition debating responses to a discussion on the RSP (Religious Studies Proje... more Paper from special edition debating responses to a discussion on the RSP (Religious Studies Project) site.
A version of this talk has not been published as a paper: "Interreligious Engagement and Identity... more A version of this talk has not been published as a paper: "Interreligious Engagement and Identity Theory: Assessing the Theology of Religions Typology as a Model for Dialogue and Encounter" (see under my papers above).
This course provides a critical understanding of the nature of religious traditions and their stu... more This course provides a critical understanding of the nature of religious traditions and their study. Students will be introduced to the contested question of what 'religion' is, and also the multidisciplinary approaches to its study. You will explore some major approaches to the study of religion, as well as key contemporary debates and theoretical stances from perspectives such as sociology, critical theory, feminism, and post-colonialism. The course will mediate between issues that focus upon the Western-centric tradition that has founded contemporary Religious Studies as well as Asian models and questions which have helped shape and call into question aspects of the Western-centric approach. Such questions are part of the global debate today, with scholars from many parts of the world being part of the discussion. The course is divided into three parts: the first addressing theoretical and methodological approaches to understanding religion and the way it is approached (e.g. insider-outsider debates, lived religion); the second focusing on key methodologies and contemporary debates and theoretical stances (e.g. some classical approaches such as sociological and historical, as well as more recent ones such as critical theory, post-colonialism) which are useful for interrogating religion; the final part explores debates surrounding the ways religions negotiate diversity and life in plural societies in contemporary contexts (themes covered include feminism, secularism, and theology).
This is a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore. It is one of series of three on introduci... more This is a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore. It is one of series of three on introducing the study of religion. A video of the session can be found at: https://logosdao.wordpress.com/.
This is a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore. It is one of a series of 3 on the introdu... more This is a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore. It is one of a series of 3 on the introduction to the study of religion. A video of the session can be found at: https://logosdao.wordpress.com/.
This is the PP for a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore, it is one of a series of 3. A ... more This is the PP for a workshop I delivered at RSIS, NTU, Singapore, it is one of a series of 3. A video of the session can be found at: https://logosdao.wordpress.com/.
Part of 'history of ideas' survey course - looking at religion/ spirituality and reason/ philosop... more Part of 'history of ideas' survey course - looking at religion/ spirituality and reason/ philosophy in Western history/ culture
Slightly old - last taught in 2009/10, so needs updating and some resources to add, but hopefully... more Slightly old - last taught in 2009/10, so needs updating and some resources to add, but hopefully of use and/ or interest.
Review:Gavin D’Costa (ed.), The Catholic Church and World Religions: A Theological and Phenomenol... more Review:Gavin D’Costa (ed.), The Catholic Church and World Religions: A Theological and Phenomenological Account’, Modern Believing, 55:3, pp. 314-7.
Review of two recent English Language Books by Perry Schmidt-Leukel: God Beyond Boundaries: A Chr... more Review of two recent English Language Books by Perry Schmidt-Leukel: God Beyond Boundaries: A Christian and Pluralist Theology of Religions (2017), and Religious Pluralism and Interreligious Theology: The Gifford Lectures - An Extended Edition (2017)
Littlejohn's text finds itself, today, as one amongst many textbooks on Daoism and Chinese Religi... more Littlejohn's text finds itself, today, as one amongst many textbooks on Daoism and Chinese Religion, a situation very different from that experienced a few years ago when few good scholarly texts were available. Amongst this crowd, Littlejohn's text stands out as one of the best, although it faces tough competition, and the variety amongst the texts may well leave many instructors choosing other equally good books which fit their course better. I will briefly turn to some comparative questions between these texts at the end of this review, but for the moment will focus on what this book itself has to offer. The structure of this text is determined by chronology, and it sets out a useful and fairly deep study of the development of Daoist traditions across the centuries. Overlying the chronological survey is a metaphorical account of Daoism using the analogy of a Kudzu vine, as a vast mass of tangled roots and branches, which Littlejohn suggests typifies it, rather than seeking for clear common elements. This approach certainly works well, helping to provide a framework for explaining how the various strands of the tradition may relate in a way that could be useful to students. Indeed, its clear historical approach is one of the great strengths of this book. The different Daoist traditions are introduced in relation to their context, while clear links are made to matters of cultural interest. This helps the student to see the linkages between these schools as well as understanding the context of the people discussed. It is, however, a little disappointing that there is no discussion of some possibly controversial claims, as well as no attempt to alert students to some of the debates in Daoist studies. For instance, Littlejohn includes the Yellow Turban sect as one of the branches of Daoism, a linkage many contemporary scholars would disavow. Also, there is no real discussion, related to this, of what strands or ideas may be seen as specifically Daoist, especially in the earlier periods when a sense of there being a Daoist tradition had not yet emerged. A final issue is that while a good proportion of the book is given over to the earliest strands of Daoist growth (just under half the chapters deal with the period up to the Han dynasty), there is a relative glossing over of the last few centuries, with the period from the Song to the Qing covered in just two chapters, and a very tiny final chapter devoted to modern and contemporary developments. Having said that, there is still a great wealth of information and detail concerning the later centuries within this text that cannot easily be found elsewhere; but I look forward to an extended second edition in due course where the historical disparity is ammended!
Increasing attention globally is being given to what are broadly termed far-right movements in te... more Increasing attention globally is being given to what are broadly termed far-right movements in terms of their potential extremist threat. Amongst these, religious groups occupy a wide range with Christian far-right extremists (CFRE) being one part. Covering a wide spectrum, the extent to which Christianity, in terms of beliefs and doctrines, is central is variable. The marker CFRE may, therefore, hide as much as it reveals in identifying the nature, motivations, and background of particular actors and groups.
The case of a self-radicalised Christian youth planning to attack two mosques in Singapore highli... more The case of a self-radicalised Christian youth planning to attack two mosques in Singapore highlights the global nature of an extremist threat that may manifest as ethno-religious supremacism or as faith-driven. How will this affect inter-religious relations?
S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, NTU: RSIS, 2020
This short commentary assumes a balanced view on the first Friday sermon after Hagia Sophia rever... more This short commentary assumes a balanced view on the first Friday sermon after Hagia Sophia reverted to being a mosque, which saw the imam leaning on a sword as part of Turkish cultural tradition. The sermon raised discussion about the relationship between Ottoman and Islamic legacies. The commentary engages with some of those questions.
The first Friday sermon after Hagia Sophia reverted to being a mosque saw the imam leaning on a s... more The first Friday sermon after Hagia Sophia reverted to being a mosque saw the imam leaning on a sword as part of Turkish cultural tradition. It raises discussion about the relationship between Ottoman and Islamic legacies.
Turkey's decision to reinstate Hagia Sophia as a mosque, while relating to internal Turkish polit... more Turkey's decision to reinstate Hagia Sophia as a mosque, while relating to internal Turkish political dynamics, is symptomatic of a wider dispute between conceptions of religion and secularism.
SYNOPSIS The toppling of the statue of a slave trader in the UK during the BLM protests raises wi... more SYNOPSIS The toppling of the statue of a slave trader in the UK during the BLM protests raises wider global questions about past "heroes" and their memorials, an issue which has resonances across not just Europe and America but also the globe including Singapore.
How far allegations of Anti-Semitism against Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party affected the rece... more How far allegations of Anti-Semitism against Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party affected the recent general election is unclear, but they have dogged the party for years and provide a lens on Anti-Semitism on the political left. The Anti-Semitism controversy highlights the need for vigilance against other forms of prejudice, including Islamophobia.
The International Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS) in Singapore brought together academics... more The International Conference on Cohesive Societies (ICCS) in Singapore brought together academics, thought leaders, policy makers, youth leaders, and practitioners and pointed towards ways we can build cohesive societies.
The recent Sri Lankan attacks risk stigmatising the Muslim community in Sri Lanka while reshaping... more The recent Sri Lankan attacks risk stigmatising the Muslim community in Sri Lanka while reshaping the fragile inter-communal relations in new ways.
In December, Singapore hosted ASEAN's inaugural interfaith exchange programme. It was a platform ... more In December, Singapore hosted ASEAN's inaugural interfaith exchange programme. It was a platform for sharing best practices among the region's neighbours, especially inter-religious dialogue. While an important tool for cultivating inter-religious harmony, there is a need to ensure that the practice of dialogue itself is inclusive.
Synopsis The recent attacks on churches in Indonesia may spark renewed concern that religious dif... more Synopsis The recent attacks on churches in Indonesia may spark renewed concern that religious differences are inevitably contentious if not leading outright to violence. However, history suggests that harmonious coexistence is the norm.
Considering the case of Hamza bin Walayat who was denied asylum in the UK and is facing deportati... more Considering the case of Hamza bin Walayat who was denied asylum in the UK and is facing deportation back to Pakistan, from where he has received death threats, for not being able to prove to the British Home Office that he was a Humanist. Looking at questions of what it means to be religious, non-religious, as well as human rights issues.
Synopsis The recent jailing of far-right extremists in the UK reflects the tip of the iceberg of ... more Synopsis The recent jailing of far-right extremists in the UK reflects the tip of the iceberg of a growing threat from extremist and radical rhetoric. It is becoming a global network that is infiltrating mainstream politics across the Western world.
Anyone who has seen the film Star Wars: The Last Jedi (warning: spoilers) may have noticed a very... more Anyone who has seen the film Star Wars: The Last Jedi (warning: spoilers) may have noticed a very direct statement by Luke referring to what he called " the Jedi religion ".
Synopsis A number of recent surveys across Europe show, despite Muslim integration, a rising susp... more Synopsis A number of recent surveys across Europe show, despite Muslim integration, a rising suspicion of Muslims and a pushback against Islamic immigration. So how can governments and other organisations help push a positive agenda? Commentary A RECENT survey in the United Kingdom by the group Hope not Hate shows in its headline figures a growing tolerance to immigration but a growing fear of Islam. Overall 42% of those polled said that recent attacks had increased their suspicion about Islam and Muslims. Meanwhile only 10% of those polled said that they felt " similar " to Muslims, suggesting a widespread perception that Muslims are seen as culturally different. This accords with the findings of another recent survey across Europe by Bertelsmann Stiftung which suggests that despite integrating much better than often thought, Muslims still face problems being accepted by the wider society. This was seen in another pan-European survey earlier in the year by Chatham House which suggested that many opposed Islamic immigration rather than immigration per se. Serving Extremist Ends These findings will no doubt be welcomed by extremist and terror groups who, it has been argued, wish to see a divide in Europe between the Muslim and non-Muslim population. While perhaps not a strategic aim of all groups, it will certainly provide fertile ground for recruitment if Muslims perceive themselves as unwelcomed or rejected by Western nations.
Synopsis A recent public order court case in the UK raises important conceptual questions about t... more Synopsis A recent public order court case in the UK raises important conceptual questions about the limits of freedom of speech and religion, especially when expressing religious views others may find offensive.
Synopsis The recent Manchester bombing is likely to lead to renewed media and policy focus on rad... more Synopsis The recent Manchester bombing is likely to lead to renewed media and policy focus on radicalisation and a search for a reason for it. However, this may lead to a search for a non-existent magic key rather than dealing with more complex problems.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, gave an exemplary interview in response to the recent London ter... more The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, gave an exemplary interview in response to the recent London terror attack that politicians should emulate in speaking in these situations, and on what needs to be done.
Many see interreligious dialogue as a way to promote social cohesion and increase societal resili... more Many see interreligious dialogue as a way to promote social cohesion and increase societal resilience. However, what potential barriers or worries stand in the way of implementing it?
This paper that the burkini ban in France can be analysed as part of a larger dynamic concerning ... more This paper that the burkini ban in France can be analysed as part of a larger dynamic concerning the way that patriarchal society constructs images and expectations of women's bodies. As such, the issue is not so much the burkini but men's control over women's bodies.
RSIS Book Launch Webinar on Understanding Religion: Theories and Methods for Studying Religiously Diverse Societies by Dr Paul Hedges, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyan Technological University (Singapore), 5 August 2021.
Paul Hedges' Understanding Religion: Theories and Methods for Studying Religiously Diverse Societ... more Paul Hedges' Understanding Religion: Theories and Methods for Studying Religiously Diverse Societies (2021) was launched in a Webinar hosted by the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyan Technological University (Singapore), on 5 August 2021. The speakers were Carole M. Cusack, Jayeel Cornelio, Laavanya Kathiravelu, Christopher Cotter, Jack Chia and Paul Hedges.
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Key features include:
- A compelling synthesis of theories of prejudice, identity, and hatred to explain Islamophobia and antisemitism.
- An innovative theory of human violence and genocide which explains the link to prejudice.
- Case studies of both Western antisemitism and Islamophobia in history and today, alongside global studies of Islamic antisemitism and Hindu and Buddhist Islamophobia
- Integrates discussion of race and racialisation as aspects of Islamophobic and antisemitic prejudice in relation to their framing in religious discourses.
- Accessible for general readers and students, it can be employed as a textbook for students or read with benefit by scholars for its novel synthesis and theories.
The book focuses on antisemitism and Islamophobia, both in the West and beyond, including examples of prejudices and hatred in the Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Drawing on examples from Europe, North America, MENA, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa, Paul Hedges points to common patterns, while identifying the specifics of local context.
Religious Hatred is an essential guide for understanding the historical origins of religious hatred, the manifestations of this hatred across diverse religious and cultural contexts, and the strategies employed by activists and peacemakers to overcome this hatred.
Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and atheism, focusing upon Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and other, e.g. Pagan, traditions in their encounter with secularism and atheism. It explores such issues as faith and reason, science and religion, gender and sexuality, 'texts of terror', and the use and abuse of arguments, evidence, and concepts.
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogue
Paul Hedges, 2 The Contemporary Context of Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Reuven Firestone, 3 Can Those Chosen by God Dialogue with Others
Khaleel Mohammed, 4 Lay, Institutional, academic
Anne Hege Grung, 5 Gender and Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Shirin Shafaie, 6 War, Peace and Nuclear Terror
Yusuff Amuda, 7 Shari'ah and Religious Tolerance for the Protection of Children: A Case Study of Nigerian Muslims and Christians
Jean-Daniel Kabati, 8 Peace-building through Interfaith Dialogue: The Democratic Republic of Congo Model
Douglas 9, Muslim Initiative and Christian Response: The Future of Dialogue
Ray Gaston, 10 Christian Responses to Islamophobia
Clinton Bennett, 11 Christian-Muslim Relations in the US post 9/11
Clare Amos, 12 Vatican and World Council of Churches Initiatives
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory Board:
James Miller
Khaleel Mohammed
Musa Dube
Eloisa Martin
Marion Maddox
Makarand Paranjape
Table of Contents:
Volume 1: Theoretical and Academic Debates
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: What is Religion? Or, What is it We’re Talking About?
Anna S. King and Paul Hedges
Chapter 2: Is the Study of Religion Religious? How to Study Religion and Who Studies Religion
Paul Hedges and Anna S. King
Chapter 3: Charisma, Scriptures, Revelation, Texts: Sources of Religious Authority
Christina Welch and Paul Hedges
Chapter 4: Religion and Embodiment: Religion and the (Latin-American) Bodies that Practice it
Renée de la Torre
Chapter 5: Religion, Commodification and Consumerism
Vineeta Singh
Chapter 6: Terror/ism and Violence in the Name of God
Lucien van Liere
Chapter 7: Belonging, Behaving, Believing, Becoming: Religion and Identity
Paul Hedges and Angela CoCo
Chapter 8: Why are there Many Gods? Religious Diversity and its Challenges
Paul Hedges
Chapter 9: Is Religion Dying? Secularization and Other Religious Trends in the World Today
Jayeel Serrano Cornelio
Chapter 10: Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Buddhist: Can you have a Multiple Religious Identity?
Rose Drew
Chapter 11: Empires and Religions: Colonialism, Post-colonialism, and Orientalism
Clinton Bennett
Volume 2: Debates in the Public Square and Ethical Issues
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: Women in Religion: Does Gender Matter?
Kayla Wheeler
Chapter 2: Friend or Foe? Current Debates in Science and Religion
Allison P. Coudert
Chapter 3: Sexuality and Religion: Homosexuality and Religious Values
Maria das Dores Campos Machado
Chapter 4: Religion and Human Rights: Conflicts and Connections
Nazila Ghanea and Farrah Ahmed
Chapter 5: The New Atheists
Ian Markham and Chrstine Faulstich
Chapter 6: Censorship, Free Speech and Religion
Christoph Baumgartner
Chapter 7: Is Religion Environmentally Friendly: Connecting Religion and Ecology
James Miller
Chapter 8: Religion and Culture: Religious Artefacts as T-shirts, Toys and Museum Exhibits
Christina Welch
Chapter 9: Are Religions Prejudiced? Religion and Disability
Susannah Cornwall
Chapter 10: Religion, Nationalism, and International Relations
Enzo Pace
Chapter 11: Religion and Politics
Marion Maddox
Chapter 12: Riots, Mass Casualities, and Religious Hatred: Countering Anti-cosmopolitan Terror through Intercultural and Interreligious Understanding
Anna Halafoff
Volume 3: Specific Issues and Case Studies
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: The Rise of Fundamentalisms
Christopher van de Krogt
Chapter 2: Loving the “Enemy”: An alternative Narrative on Jewish-Muslim Relations
Yafiah Randall
Chapter 3: Buddhism, Nationalism, and Violence in Asia
Jude Lal Fernando
Chapter 4: Religion and Bioethics: Human Genetics and Embryo Research
Neil Messer
Chapter 5: What do Americans think of Muslims?: The 9/11 Islamic Community Centre
Khaleel Mohammed
Chapter 6: New Religious Movements, “Cults”, and the State
Ryan J. T. Adams
Chapter 7: Shariah Law and Women in Islam
Adis Duderjia
Chapter 8: Can Christianity take New Forms? Christianity in New Cultural Contexts
James Cox
Chapter 9: New Religious Movements in Global Context
Nobutaka Inoue
Chapter 10: Scandals
Marion Maddox
Chapter 11: Can Christians Engage in non-Christian Practices? Eastern Meditations and Contemplative Prayer
Fabrice Blée
decolonization; lived religion; philosophical hermeneutics; art; music;
Christian-Hindu; darshan
Key features include:
- A compelling synthesis of theories of prejudice, identity, and hatred to explain Islamophobia and antisemitism.
- An innovative theory of human violence and genocide which explains the link to prejudice.
- Case studies of both Western antisemitism and Islamophobia in history and today, alongside global studies of Islamic antisemitism and Hindu and Buddhist Islamophobia
- Integrates discussion of race and racialisation as aspects of Islamophobic and antisemitic prejudice in relation to their framing in religious discourses.
- Accessible for general readers and students, it can be employed as a textbook for students or read with benefit by scholars for its novel synthesis and theories.
The book focuses on antisemitism and Islamophobia, both in the West and beyond, including examples of prejudices and hatred in the Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist traditions. Drawing on examples from Europe, North America, MENA, South and Southeast Asia, and Africa, Paul Hedges points to common patterns, while identifying the specifics of local context.
Religious Hatred is an essential guide for understanding the historical origins of religious hatred, the manifestations of this hatred across diverse religious and cultural contexts, and the strategies employed by activists and peacemakers to overcome this hatred.
Explores the relationship and dialogue between religion and atheism, focusing upon Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and other, e.g. Pagan, traditions in their encounter with secularism and atheism. It explores such issues as faith and reason, science and religion, gender and sexuality, 'texts of terror', and the use and abuse of arguments, evidence, and concepts.
Leonard Swidler, Preface
Alan Race, Foreword
David Thomas, 1 Dialogue before Dialogue
Paul Hedges, 2 The Contemporary Context of Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Reuven Firestone, 3 Can Those Chosen by God Dialogue with Others
Khaleel Mohammed, 4 Lay, Institutional, academic
Anne Hege Grung, 5 Gender and Muslim-Christian Dialogue
Shirin Shafaie, 6 War, Peace and Nuclear Terror
Yusuff Amuda, 7 Shari'ah and Religious Tolerance for the Protection of Children: A Case Study of Nigerian Muslims and Christians
Jean-Daniel Kabati, 8 Peace-building through Interfaith Dialogue: The Democratic Republic of Congo Model
Douglas 9, Muslim Initiative and Christian Response: The Future of Dialogue
Ray Gaston, 10 Christian Responses to Islamophobia
Clinton Bennett, 11 Christian-Muslim Relations in the US post 9/11
Clare Amos, 12 Vatican and World Council of Churches Initiatives
Dr Paul Hedges, University of Winchester, UK
International Editorial Advisory Board:
James Miller
Khaleel Mohammed
Musa Dube
Eloisa Martin
Marion Maddox
Makarand Paranjape
Table of Contents:
Volume 1: Theoretical and Academic Debates
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: What is Religion? Or, What is it We’re Talking About?
Anna S. King and Paul Hedges
Chapter 2: Is the Study of Religion Religious? How to Study Religion and Who Studies Religion
Paul Hedges and Anna S. King
Chapter 3: Charisma, Scriptures, Revelation, Texts: Sources of Religious Authority
Christina Welch and Paul Hedges
Chapter 4: Religion and Embodiment: Religion and the (Latin-American) Bodies that Practice it
Renée de la Torre
Chapter 5: Religion, Commodification and Consumerism
Vineeta Singh
Chapter 6: Terror/ism and Violence in the Name of God
Lucien van Liere
Chapter 7: Belonging, Behaving, Believing, Becoming: Religion and Identity
Paul Hedges and Angela CoCo
Chapter 8: Why are there Many Gods? Religious Diversity and its Challenges
Paul Hedges
Chapter 9: Is Religion Dying? Secularization and Other Religious Trends in the World Today
Jayeel Serrano Cornelio
Chapter 10: Christian and Hindu, Jewish and Buddhist: Can you have a Multiple Religious Identity?
Rose Drew
Chapter 11: Empires and Religions: Colonialism, Post-colonialism, and Orientalism
Clinton Bennett
Volume 2: Debates in the Public Square and Ethical Issues
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: Women in Religion: Does Gender Matter?
Kayla Wheeler
Chapter 2: Friend or Foe? Current Debates in Science and Religion
Allison P. Coudert
Chapter 3: Sexuality and Religion: Homosexuality and Religious Values
Maria das Dores Campos Machado
Chapter 4: Religion and Human Rights: Conflicts and Connections
Nazila Ghanea and Farrah Ahmed
Chapter 5: The New Atheists
Ian Markham and Chrstine Faulstich
Chapter 6: Censorship, Free Speech and Religion
Christoph Baumgartner
Chapter 7: Is Religion Environmentally Friendly: Connecting Religion and Ecology
James Miller
Chapter 8: Religion and Culture: Religious Artefacts as T-shirts, Toys and Museum Exhibits
Christina Welch
Chapter 9: Are Religions Prejudiced? Religion and Disability
Susannah Cornwall
Chapter 10: Religion, Nationalism, and International Relations
Enzo Pace
Chapter 11: Religion and Politics
Marion Maddox
Chapter 12: Riots, Mass Casualities, and Religious Hatred: Countering Anti-cosmopolitan Terror through Intercultural and Interreligious Understanding
Anna Halafoff
Volume 3: Specific Issues and Case Studies
Introduction
Paul Hedges
Chapter 1: The Rise of Fundamentalisms
Christopher van de Krogt
Chapter 2: Loving the “Enemy”: An alternative Narrative on Jewish-Muslim Relations
Yafiah Randall
Chapter 3: Buddhism, Nationalism, and Violence in Asia
Jude Lal Fernando
Chapter 4: Religion and Bioethics: Human Genetics and Embryo Research
Neil Messer
Chapter 5: What do Americans think of Muslims?: The 9/11 Islamic Community Centre
Khaleel Mohammed
Chapter 6: New Religious Movements, “Cults”, and the State
Ryan J. T. Adams
Chapter 7: Shariah Law and Women in Islam
Adis Duderjia
Chapter 8: Can Christianity take New Forms? Christianity in New Cultural Contexts
James Cox
Chapter 9: New Religious Movements in Global Context
Nobutaka Inoue
Chapter 10: Scandals
Marion Maddox
Chapter 11: Can Christians Engage in non-Christian Practices? Eastern Meditations and Contemplative Prayer
Fabrice Blée
decolonization; lived religion; philosophical hermeneutics; art; music;
Christian-Hindu; darshan