Abstract
More effective engagement with religion requires not only greater critical reflection upon the presumptions of humanitarianism and openness to theological reflection regarding the experience of refuge and displacement. It also requires a commitment to skilled dialogue with local faith communities. The perspectives of Habermas, Taylor and West offer distinct insights into the terms of this public dialogue. Core humanitarian principles—interpreted with respect to both their historical origins and contemporary realities—provide a key framework for structuring exchange. Seeking understanding rather than agreement offers a principled means of dealing with challenging areas of difference. New skills will be required for a humanitarianism principally focused on linking resources to local concerns rather than coordinating the targeting of external assistance driven by global agendas.
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© 2015 Alastair Ager and Joey Ager
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Ager, A., Ager, J. (2015). Towards More Effective Dialogue between Humanitarianism and Religion. In: Faith, Secularism, and Humanitarian Engagement: Finding the Place of Religion in the Support of Displaced Communities. Religion and Global Migrations. Palgrave Pivot, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137472144_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137472144_4
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