Introduction to Religious Pluralism

What is religious pluralism? 

Diana Eck is the founder and director of Harvard University's Pluralism Project and makes a distinction between "diversity" and "pluralism."

• Diversity is simply the demographic reality of variety or difference.

• Pluralism requires engagement with other religious groups.

Historically, Americans have responded to diversity in three ways: (See "From Diversity to Pluralism.") 

• Exclusion: religious difference is perceived as a threat and something to oppose. 

• Assimilation: imagines the U.S. as a melting pot, newer groups expected to give up things that distinguish themselves from dominant U.S. religion i.e. white Protestantism.

• Pluralism: keep your own traditions but agree to common civic demands of American citizenship. 

Resources

The Boisi Center "Religious Pluralism in the United States"

• In this paper, published by Boston College's Bois Center for Religion and American Public Life, religious pluralism is upheld as worthy ideal for which to strive