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Document Details : Title: The University and Interfaith Education Author(s): CHEETHAM, David Journal: Studies in Interreligious Dialogue Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Date: 2005 Pages: 16-35 DOI: 10.2143/SID.15.1.583339 Abstract : The focus of this article is largely pedagogical. It is a critical reflection on the contribution that the uni-versity can play in inter-religious education. The article firstly seeks to sketch one particular characterisa-tion of “interfaith” education: implying a stance that reflects a more pluralistic philosophical/theological standpoint. Next, there is a discussion about the university environment and the impact that liberal secular assumptions have had on departments of religious studies and theology. Attention is also given to recent debates about the future of “theology” and “religious studies” departments. In this context I give some consideration to issues concerning comparative studies and the purpose of dialogue. This is followed by a look at some of the dilemmas that face the teaching of “inter-religious relations” in the university context: what “grounds” such studies? What strategies might be employed for resolving ideological difficulties? Finally, there is a summative consideration of the features that might characterise inter-religious studies in the university. |
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