Talking about religion in a divided world

At the heart of polarization is an unwillingness to engage seriously with those who hold different perspectives from our own. Although we often think of polarization in political terms, it can extend to other areas including religion. In our secular society, people of faith are often dismissed as misguided, superstitious, or trying to impose their beliefs on the unwilling. Even between followers of different faith traditions, unfamiliar beliefs are often met with suspicion or mistrust. 

This week I speak with three guests - Alice Chan, Hicham Tiflati, and Margie Patrick. They are all representatives of the Centre for Civic Religious Literacy (CCRL), an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers by helping Canadians better understand religious, spiritual, and non‑religious worldviews.

Our discussion challenges the idea that religion is purely private, arguing instead that beliefs shape identity, values, and civic engagement for many Canadians.  All three of my guests make a strong case that increased religious literacy is crucial to promoting understanding and fighting polarization.