The Religious Roots of Contemporary European Identity

Reviews / Votes

"Many have spoken of the increased secularization of Europe. This excellent volume from an international conference in Cambridge offers a comprehensive overview of the current debate, placing it as well in a historical context. It takes up ongoing questions such as antisemitism but also more contemporary ones such as an intense discussion over the role of Islam. Perspectives come from all parts of Europe--West, Central, East and from all the major European religious traditions. An indispensable addition to this vital debate." John T Pawlikowski, OSM, Ph.D, Professor of Social Ethics, Director, Catholic-Jewish Studies Program, Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, USA. "At the start of this century, Europe - once so fragmented in its history - stands on the threshold of a new era of power and influence on the world stage. But unless we can understand the roots of Europe's potential unity, we cannot work to actualize it. This book delves deep, and challenges the prevailing view that religious identity, built up over centuries, can be overlooked, dismissed, or reduced in the quest for a new human future. The great constituents of European identity - Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and secular values - are analyzed here with illuminating perspicuity. A book of such depth, richness and originality needs to be read more than once. We owe its editors an immense debt of gratitude". Professor Julius Lipner, Professor of Hinduism and the Comparative Study of Religion, Divinity Faculty, University of Cambridge. 'The book is multidisciplinary in its approach and combines insights from history, social sciences, philosophy, religious studies and theology. Although it only occasionally touches upon educational issues, the book gives useful perspectives on how to deal with European complexity in the context of civic and religious education.' 'This book offers valuable insights into the concerns of religious educationists during their subject's definitive period of transformation as well as giving a clear account of Gate's own contribution. Gates captures and reflects the humane and liberal spirit of Smart's seminal contribution to religious education. His own approach to issues is thoughtful and balanced and has careful regard to the realities of school life and a concern for the broader personal development of children and young people.'