Includes bibliographical references (pages 221-264) and index.
Contents:
Universalism tainted with particularisms -- Ambiguities of freedom -- Equality in diversity -- Awkward bedfellows ? religious freedom and other human rights -- Shades and modes of secularisms -- Violations of freedom of religion or belief -- Comparing international and regional case law -- Preventing violence committed in the name of religion -- Custodian against the sacralization of human rights.
Summary:
"In spite of its reputation as a "classical" human right, freedom of religion or belief continues to evoke political controversies and ambivalent reactions, ranging from enthusiastic support to a certain unease or even open opposition. Obviously, the struggle for religious freedom is far from over. There is not only the challenge of its effective implementation, but its content, significance, meaning, and justification also deserve critical scrutiny. The purpose of this book is to contribute to more conceptual clarity in this ongoing struggle. The authors summarize their position in two closely interrelated hypotheses. The first hypothesis is that freedom of religion or belief is a human right, which displays the same normative structure that defines the human rights approach in general. With the second hypothesis, they go a step further by claiming that freedom of religion or belief has an indispensable role to play within the framework of human rights. Without taking freedom of religion or belief seriously, human rights would not be able to do justice to the complex needs, yearnings, and vulnerabilities of human beings. Indeed, without freedom of religion or belief, human rights would cease to be fully humane"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.