Options
Taking faith seriously: Philosophical thoughts on religious education
Citation
Tan, C. (2009). Taking faith seriously: Philosophical thoughts on religious education. Beliefs and Values: Understanding the Global Implications of Human Nature, 1(2), 209-219.
Author
Tan, Charlene
Abstract
Religious literacy is essential in a globalized and multicultural world that is characterized by religious resurgence and interfaith tensions. This article offers some philosophical thoughts on this topic by exploring, first, three main approaches to religious education: teaching for commitment , teaching about commitment , and teaching from commitment. Arguing for the last approach, this article discusses the need for parents and educators to provide a stable and coherent ideological framework or primary culture aimed at the child/
student's rational autonomy. Further, parents and educators should provide opportunities for the child/student to acquire interreligious understanding through reflection on and participation in interfaith dialogues and activities. The goal is for individuals to appreciate the beliefs and values of one’s own faith and those of others so as to facilitate a greater understanding of self, others, and the world at large.
Date Issued
2009