The Future of Interfaith Dialogue

Interfaith dialogue faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities in the twenty-first century. The forces shaping the contemporary world — digital technology, mass migration, environmental crisis, and the resurgence of both religion and secularism — are transforming the conditions under which people of different faiths encounter one another. This lesson examines the emerging trends that will shape the future of interfaith dialogue: digital-age encounters, the impact of migration and diversity, shared ethical challenges including climate change, and the possibilities of post-secular dialogue.

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Digital Age Dialogue

The Internet as Interfaith Space

The internet and social media have created entirely new spaces for interfaith encounter. For the first time in history, people can engage with adherents of other religions instantaneously, across geographical boundaries, and without the mediation of institutional gatekeepers.

Opportunities

Access to information. The internet provides unprecedented access to the scriptures, teachings, and practices of the worlds religions. A student in rural England can read the Quran, watch a Hindu puja, listen to a Buddhist dharma talk, or participate in a live-streamed Shabbat service — all from their phone. This democratisation of religious knowledge has the potential to reduce ignorance, stereotyping, and prejudice.