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W ords of Worth: Talking Religiously about Peace and Dialogue
Author(s) -
Illman Ruth
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
peace and change
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1468-0130
pISSN - 0149-0508
DOI - 10.1111/j.1468-0130.2007.00447.x
Subject(s) - appeal , forgiveness , sociology , social psychology , psychology , law , political science
In this article, I address the question of what special contribution the engagement of religious communities and individuals can offer to the larger peace movement from the standpoint of comparative religion. I argue that, on the one hand, religions can offer a language in which to speak about peace in a creative way—for example, by using words as dialogue and otherness, forgiveness and reconciliation, love and responsibility. On the other hand, I further argue, religions can offer motivation for peace engagement on a personal level. My analysis leans on empirical experiences from an ecumenical Peace Appeal signed by Christian officials in Finland in 2004.