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The Impossibility of Religious Freedom

Jesus Mitchell

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Published in The Impossibility Of Religious Freedom: New Edition

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The Impossibility of Religious Freedom: New Edition

by Winnifred Fallers Sullivan

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2757 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	331 pages

In a world increasingly divided by religious conflict, the concept of religious freedom has become more important than ever. But what exactly is religious freedom, and how can we achieve it?

In his classic work, The Impossibility of Religious Freedom, theologian Miroslav Volf argues that true religious freedom is impossible to achieve in any society. This is because religious freedom requires two contradictory things: the right to believe and practice one's religion without interference from the state, and the right of the state to protect its citizens from harm.

Volf argues that these two rights are inherently incompatible. On the one hand, the right to religious freedom means that the state cannot interfere with the religious beliefs or practices of its citizens. This means that the state cannot prohibit people from practicing their religion, even if those practices are harmful to others. On the other hand, the state also has a responsibility to protect its citizens from harm. This means that the state may have to restrict religious practices that pose a threat to public safety or order.

Volf argues that the only way to resolve this conflict is to create a society in which religion is privatized. This means that religion would be confined to the private sphere of life, and would not be allowed to influence public policy or law. Volf argues that this is the only way to ensure both religious freedom and the protection of citizens from harm.

Volf's arguments have been both praised and criticized. Some have argued that he is too pessimistic about the possibility of religious freedom. Others have argued that he is too willing to sacrifice religious freedom in the name of public safety. However, there is no doubt that Volf's work has sparked a much-needed debate about the nature of religious freedom and its role in a democratic society.

The new edition of The Impossibility of Religious Freedom includes a new by Volf in which he reflects on the continuing relevance of his work in the wake of 9/11 and other recent events. Volf argues that the events of 9/11 have made it even more clear that religious freedom is a fragile and often elusive ideal. However, he also argues that it is more important than ever to strive for religious freedom, even if it is ultimately impossible to achieve.

The Impossibility of Religious Freedom is a provocative and timely work that challenges our assumptions about religious freedom. Volf's arguments are sure to continue to spark debate for years to come.

Image Descriptions

A photo of Miroslav Volf, the author of The Impossibility of Religious Freedom.
A photo of a group of people praying in a church.
A photo of a group of people protesting against religious discrimination.

The Impossibility of Religious Freedom: New Edition

by Winnifred Fallers Sullivan

4.2 out of 5