Monotheism, Intolerance, and the Path to Pluralistic Politics

Monotheism's intolerance is a source of conflict and liberation, according to Christopher Haw. He proposes a model that retains liberal, pluralistic principles while acknowledging their limitations and relates them to theologies latent in political ideas. His volume offers a nuanced, evolutionary, and historical understanding of the biblical tradition's emergence and its political consequences with respect to violence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Monotheism, a belief in the existence of one supreme god, has been a subject of intense debate and discussion. While some argue that monotheism promotes peaceful tolerance by recognizing the superiority of one god over others, others point out its inherent bigotry towards other gods. Both approaches fail to acknowledge the complex interplay between danger and liberation in monotheism's intolerance.

In his groundbreaking volume, Christopher Haw challenges these prevailing perspectives. He advocates for rejecting the notion of inclusivity in favor of an agonistic pluralism and intolerance of absolutism. Haw proposes a model that retains liberal, pluralistic principles while acknowledging their limitations. He also connects these principles to theologies latent in political ideas, offering a nuanced, evolutionary, and historical understanding of the biblical tradition's emergence and its political consequences with respect to violence.

The volume provides valuable insights into how we can mediate impasses between liberal and conservative views in culture wars. It suggests ways to bridge the gap between liberal inclusivity and conservative decisionism, particularly in the realm of religious beliefs. On the religious front, the book offers a critical examination of apologetics for exclusive monotheism and critiques of its intolerance.

By challenging the binary of inclusivity versus intolerance, Haw's volume contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of monotheism and its implications for society. It encourages readers to explore the complexities of religious beliefs and to engage in constructive dialogue and debate to promote greater understanding and harmony among different communities.

ISBN-13: 9781108810296