Inside Fundamentalism: Recent Episodes
Woolf Institute
Inside Fundamentalism takes an in depth look at Strictly Observant Religion in the UK following on from Dr Ed Kessler's BBC Radio 4 broadcast We Do Do God.
It would be a grave mistake to think that fundamentalists, the strictly observant, are focused solely on the afterlife or reaching for perfection. Their engagement in this world and healing its troubles is undeniable. Community relations in Stamford Hill, Church of England schools in inner London and outreach programmes from some of our biggest mosques, the list is long. Many believers assert that social engagement is not only desirable but is essential in their faith.
Presented by Dr Ed Kessler, Founder Director of the Woolf Institute.
Both Islam and Christianity have a long history of trying to convert others. Judaism less so. This activity has been the cause of conflict and violence in the past and presents a paradox for the strictly observant. If you believe fervently in your religion, is it not natural to proselytise? At the same time, part of you might feel you should respect the beliefs of others, live and let live.
Within faith groups there are attempts to change the minds of co-religionists: High Church, Low Church; Orthodox, Catholic; Salafi Islam, mainstream Islam; Ultra-Orthodox Jews, Liberal Jews; perhaps live and let live is the only practical way forward; live and let live and enjoy the diversity.
Presented by Dr Ed Kessler, Founder Director of the Woolf Institute.
In the first episode of this short series, we consider the role of religious courts in the UK today. How do they function? And is there a danger that they could conflict with English Civil law?
Presented by Dr Ed Kessler, Founder Director of the Woolf Institute.