Religion and Multiculturalism: Religious Pluralism
Understanding Religious Pluralism
Definition
Religious pluralism
Religious pluralism is the view that multiple religions can offer valid paths to truth or salvation. It contrasts with exclusivism (only one true religion) and inclusivism (one true religion, but others have partial truth).
John Hick and the Concept of "The Real"
- John Hick (1922–2012) was a prominent philosopher of religion who advocated for religious pluralism.
- His work challenges the idea that any single religion holds a monopoly on truth.
The Real: A Transcendent Reality
- The Real: Hick posits a transcendent reality beyond human comprehension, which he calls "the Real" or "the Ultimate."
- Religions as Interpretations: Different religions are cultural and historical interpretations of this ultimate reality.
- Analogy of the Elephant and the Blind Men: Just as blind men describe an elephant differently based on the part they touch, religions offer partial perspectives on the Real.
In Hinduism, the concept of Brahman parallels Hick's idea of the Real as an ultimate, indescribable reality.
The Copernican Revolution in Religion
- Traditional View: Christianity (or another religion) is the center, and other religions orbit around it.
- Hick's Proposal: The Real is the center, and all religions orbit around it, each offering a unique perspective.
Hick's model challenges the exclusivist claim that only one religion leads to salvation or truth.
The Role of Religious Experience
- Religious Experiences: Hick argues that religious experiences are genuine encounters with the Real, but they are filtered through cultural and linguistic frameworks.
