Proselytism is as old as religion itself.  Nearly all spiritual faiths seek to expand the number of adherents that they have via communicating with people not within their faith tradition.  But to what extent is proselytism a “bad thing” for society, perhaps as a form of cultural imperialism?  How has religious proselytism impacted socio-economic development over time?  How do humanitarian acts factor into proselytism and economic development?  Thomas Farr, director of the Religious Freedom Project (part of Georgetown University’s Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs), leads a conversation among a diverse set of scholars including Robert Woodberry, Michael Barnett, and Rebecca Shah (heard in that order).  This is one of several panels presented by the Religious Freedom Project on the topic of proselytism, including one on proselytism and social stability (see below).  Recorded: March 4, 2015.

RELATED LINKS

Religious Freedom Project at Georgetown University’s Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs.

Thomas Farr’s bio at the Religious Freedom Project.

Michael Barnett’s bio at George Washington University.

Rebecca Shah’s bio at the Religious Freedom Project.

Robert Woodberry’s bio at the Religious Freedom Project.

Cornerstone, the official blog of the Religious Freedom Project.

RELATED PODCASTS

Proselytism, Social Stability, and Development: A Panel Discussion.

Religious Liberty & Economic Prosperity: A Panel Discussion.

Religious Liberty & Political Flourishing: A Panel Discussion.

Rebecca Shah on Religion and the Enterprising Poor in India.

Thomas Farr on Religion, Religious Liberty, and US Diplomacy.

Robert Woodberry on Missionaries and Democracy.

Timothy Shah on the Case for Religious Freedom.

 

 

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One Response to “Proselytism, Humanitarianism, and Development: A Panel Discussion”

1. Research On Religion | Carrie Miles on Religion, Gender, and Missionaries says:

   May 31, 2015 at 4:01 am

   […] Proselytism, Humanitarianism, and Development: A Panel Discussion. […]

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