Description

What contributions do religions make to civil society? Do they foment conflict, or do they help to keep the peace? These kinds of questions are currently the subject of vigorous debate in the media and in society itself. Public discussions often foster and perpetuate stereotypes, which may serve to reinforce entrenched opinions and exacerbate conflicts in turn. This book seeks to counteract the trend by making a case for critical rationality and a circumspect approach: What exactly is tolerance, and what potential do Muslim traditions offer? Is "Islam as a whole" in need of reformation? What validity claims do Muslims and Christians make as they engage in mission? How do claims of this nature relate to such issues as respect, dialog, or conversion? The collection of articles explores these questions, thereby emphasizing the relevance of research in mission studies and religious studies for church and society.