Abstract
Since the implementation of a multicultural policy in the 1970s, religious diversity in Australia has increased. Research has demonstrated that intergroup contact is essential for managing diverse multicultural societies. This is because, given the right conditions, intergroup contact will reduce prejudice and build trust between groups. Given the importance of intergroup contact, policy makers and researchers have identified interfaith dialogue’s importance to the success of Australia’s multicultural project. However, there is limited research that explores interfaith dialogue from the perspectives of adherents, in this case Christians and Muslims in the Australian context. This paper focuses on interfaith dialogue between Christians of the Uniting Church and Sunni Muslims of Adelaide, South Australia. It explores the beliefs, attitudes and experiences that influence participants’ towards engaging with each other. Using a grounded theory methodology, this qualitative study involved both religious leaders and everyday adherents. It highlights the influence of theological perspectives and social policies on inclusivist attitudes. However, the media, political rhetoric and other social factors are inhibiting these groups from organizing and/or participating in forms of Christian-Muslim dialogue.
Presenters
Gregory MacdonaldPhD Student, Centre for Islamic Thought and Education, University of South Australia
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
CHRISTIAN-MUSLIM DIALOGUE, MULTICULTURALISM, INTERGROUP CONTACT, AUSTRALIA
