Religion is not inherently emancipatory. Burdened by history and current events, it has served to reinforce patriarchal, authoritarian, or nationalist structures (American Christian nationalism, Islamic fundamentalism, nationalist Hinduism, or the role of the Orthodox Church in Russia, to name a few). There are many examples of dogmatism and/or oppressive moralism. But what might religious counterforce look like? There are those who look to religion to restore human dignity, solidarity, and criticism of abuse of power.
Can religion be used as a resource in cases where resistance to authoritarian tendencies becomes morally necessary? This will be discussed by:
Elena Namli, a Swedish philosopher and theologian, professor of theological ethics at Uppsala University, and one of the most influential contemporary voices in Nordic ethical and justice research. Her work operates at the intersection of moral philosophy, political theory, religious studies, and human rights, and she has made significant contributions to both academic and public understanding of the role of ethics in society and politics.
Joel Halldorf is a Swedish church historian, author, and public intellectual who has established himself as one of the most influential voices in the discussion around the role of religion in modern society over the last decade. Grounded in church history, he argues that religious institutions can serve as counterforces against consumerism, polarization, and loneliness. At the same time, he advocates for a pluralistic public space in which different beliefs can participate on equal terms.
Rouzbeh Parsi, a historian and specialist in Iran’s modern history, nationalism, intellectual history, as well as human rights and Middle Eastern politics, is currently releasing the book Between God and State – Iran After a Long 20th Century, in which he depicts the recurring conflict between religiosity and secularism in Iran, as well as the internal struggle within Islam regarding the role of religion as a state-bearer or not.
Anders Wejryd, former bishop, will lead the conversation.
Datum och tid: Saturday March 21, 17.00–18:00
Place: Uppsala City Library, Free Admission!
Language: Swedish