Pluralism is a concept that encompasses diversity in different perspectives. Religion pluralism is the most common type since people have the innate desire in believing the existence of a higher power. Due to varying ideologies, several religion practices have emerged where some have similar principals while others are contrasting. Therefore, it is vital to learn about pluralism with the aim of understanding its essence in our lives. The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the topic of pluralism in the context of coexistence of various religions.
Pluralism Defined
Pluralism is the belief that ideologies that are more different, faiths or sexual orientations can coexist harmoniously. This ideology goes beyond tolerance of diversity in the society to engage with the other different cultures and beliefs for more in-depth understanding (O’Leary, 2016). Pluralism dates back to the times of famous philosophers like Hegel, Kant, Schleiermacher and John Hick. Kant and Schleiermacher agree on the existence of various faiths (Hick, 2010). There is no right religion as longs each encourages morality in the society. However, Hegel’s approach is more detailed as it explains pluralism as the result of self-manifestation of both the beliefs and the divine power.
Religion
Religion comprises of the beliefs and rituals associated with worshipping a divine power. There are various religions in the world both monotheistic religions like Christianity and Islam while others are polytheistic like Hinduism. In a society with diversified beliefs, pluralism can be placed in three forms and include majoritarianism, tolerance, and syncretism (O’Leary, 2016). Majoritarianism is established on the philosophy that the majority rules. For example, an area where a majority are Muslims, it advocates that Islam be the official religion. In like manner, tolerance calls for equality even to the minority group. While syncretism is an advanced approach that integrates all the practices, i.e., Muslim and Jews worshipping in the same place.
Religion Oppression
In a society with diversified beliefs and religions, then discrimination and exclusion are common. When a person is discriminated in response to their religious affiliation, that act is an example of religious oppression (Hansen, 2017). For instance, the Holy war between the Christians and Muslims witnessed in Nigeria have led to the death of many people. Additionally, statistics indicate that Christians are the most oppressed religion today and multiple bombing in churches and discrimination in countries of Middle East evidence this (Hick, 2010). However, other religions like Buddhist put aside their difference and strive to live harmoniously with others.
Support Pluralism Statement
The solution to the world’s enigma associated with religious-related wars is through pluralism. Tolerance and syncretism pluralism that allows everyone to practice his or her religion without fear of victimization is the ideal way to coexist together. Many wars today like Jihadist and terrorists attacks are due to religious differences and pluralism is the only practical solution to relinquish such acts. Therefore, it is undeniable that pluralism is the most important philosophy of our time.
Conclusion
Pluralism expects different religions to coexist as well as work together to enrich the society's morality. Religious oppression violates a person's freedom of worship through discrimination and persecution. Therefore, it is essential to embrace pluralism not as a concept but as a way of life.
References
Hansen, I. G., Jackson, V. W. Y., " Ryder, A. (2017). Religion and oppression: cross-national and experimental investigations. Religion, Brain, and Behavior, pp. 1–25. https://doi.org/10.1080/2153599X.2017.1358208
Hick, J. (2010). Religious Pluralism. A Companion to Philosophy of Religion, 710–717. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781444320152.ch84
O'Leary, J. S. (2016). Religious pluralism and Christian truth. Wipf and Stock Publishers.
