Pluralism in Depth

Religious pluralism is the most radical of the three positions in the theology of religions. It holds that no single religion has a monopoly on truth or salvation — that the major world religions are equally valid paths to the divine, each offering authentic encounters with ultimate reality. The most influential advocate of pluralism is John Hick, whose "pluralistic hypothesis" has shaped the debate for decades. This lesson examines Hicks Copernican revolution in theology, Paul Knitters contributions, the controversial "Myth of Christian Uniqueness" thesis, and the major criticisms that have been levelled against pluralism.

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John Hick`s Pluralistic Hypothesis

John Hick (1922–2012) began his career as a fairly orthodox Christian philosopher but gradually moved toward pluralism through his engagement with other religions, particularly during his years in Birmingham, one of the most religiously diverse cities in Britain.

The Copernican Revolution in Theology