On the Idea of People of Integrity in the Context of Rich Religious Diversity

By Adis Duderija, New Age Islam 29 August 2024 “By “people of integrity” I mean people who, at least in the ideal case, know a great deal, avoid exaggeration, admit ignorance when appropriate, have an interest in the truth, and are intelligent, serious, sincere, decent, sensible, reflective, and so on. People of this calibre can be found in many religious traditions, and indeed among those who endorse secular perspectives. Such people hold the relevant beliefs in all sincerity and endeavour to live in accordance with them. Roughly speaking, such people are no more common in any one tradition than they are in the others, and people who approximate to this ideal are similarly distributed.” Robert Mc Kim In an increasingly interconnected world, the significance of integrity among individuals, particularly within diverse religious contexts, cannot be overstated. People of integrity—those who embody qualities such as sincerity, intelligence, and a genuine pursuit of truth—play a crucial role in fostering understanding and harmony amidst religious diversity. This essay using the insights of Professor Robert Mc Kim, will explore the nature of integrity, its manifestation across various religious traditions, and its essential role in promoting dialogue and coexistence. Defining Integrity in a Pluralistic Society Integrity, at its core, involves a commitment to truth and ethical principles. Professor Robert McKim’sdescription of people of integrity highlights several key attributes: knowledge, humility, a serious engagement with beliefs, and an earnest desire for truth. In a pluralistic society, these qualities become even more essential. Individuals who possess integrity are equipped to navigate the complexities of differing beliefs and practices with respect and understanding. The Importance of Knowledge Knowledge is a foundational pillar of integrity. People of integrity are well-informed and avoid exaggeration. They recognise that understanding the beliefs and practices of others requires diligent study and a willingness to listen. In a world where misinformation can easily spread, particularly about different faiths, the commitment to seek knowledge is vital. For instance, a person of integrity might engage deeply with the teachings of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and other faiths, striving to understand their core principles rather than relying on stereotypes or second-hand interpretations. This level of engagement fosters empathy and reduces the potential for conflict born from misunderstanding. Admitting Ignorance In addition to knowledge, the ability to admit ignorance is a hallmark of integrity. No one can know everything, and acknowledging one’s limitations can open the door to meaningful conversations. People of integrity are not afraid to say, “I don’t know,” which invites others to share their perspectives and insights. This humility is particularly important in interfaith dialogues, where assumptions can lead to tension. By admitting ignorance, individuals create space for learning and exploration, allowing for a richer exchange of ideas. This approach not only enhances personal growth but also builds bridges between communities. The Role of Sincerity and Decency Sincerity and decency are integral to the character of people of integrity. These individuals genuinely believe in their convictions and live in accordance with them, regardless of their religious affiliation or lack thereof. Their sincerity fosters trust, enabling them to engage with others in a way that is both respectful and constructive. In religious contexts, this sincerity translates into a commitment to the ethical teachings of one’s tradition. For example, a person who practices Hinduism may embody the principle of ahimsa (non-violence) in their interactions with others, while a sincere Christian might strive to live out the teachings of love and compassion. This alignment between belief and action demonstrates the power of integrity in religious life. Sensibility and Reflection Sensibility, the ability to respond to the world with understanding and reason, is another characteristic of people of integrity. They are reflective, considering the implications of their beliefs and actions on others. Such individuals are not only concerned with being right but also with being kind and just. In a religiously diverse society, sensibility allows for a nuanced approach to differing beliefs. People of integrity are more likely to engage in constructive dialoguerather than confrontational debate. This is crucial in a world where religious differences often spark conflict. By prioritizing understanding over winning an argument, they contribute to a more harmonious coexistence. Integrity Across Religious Traditions People of integrity can be found across various religious traditions, as well as among those who identify as secular. The universality of integrity suggests that it is not confined to any single belief system. Instead, it is a shared human value that transcends boundaries. 1. Buddhism: The concept of “Right Speech” in Buddhism encourages individuals to speak truthfully and kindly. A Buddhist person of integrity embodies this principle by engaging thoughtfully in discussions, promoting understanding over discord. 2. Islam: In Islam, integrity is deeply rooted in the concept of *Amanah* (trustworthiness). Muslims are encouraged to be truthful and just in their dealings with others. A person of integrity in this tradition will strive to uphold these values, fostering goodwill in interfaith interactions. 3. Judaism: The Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of *Tikkun Olam* (repairing the world). A Jewish individual of integrity seeks to contribute positively to society, engaging with others to promote justice and compassion, regardless of their religious background. 4. Secular Perspectives: People who identify as secular can also embody integrity by engaging in ethical reasoning and a commitment to truth. Their pursuit of knowledge and understanding can lead to meaningful dialogues with individuals from religious traditions, demonstrating that integrity is not limited to religious contexts. Challenges to Integrity in Religious Contexts Despite the presence of individuals of integrity, challenges persist in religious contexts. Dogmatism, intolerance, and the politicization of faith can obscure the pursuit of truth and understanding. These challenges often arise from a lack of knowledge or an unwillingness to engage with differing perspectives. Dogmatism can stifle open dialogue and lead to a rigid adherence to beliefs that dismiss the validity of others. Individuals who lack integritymay resort to exaggeration or misrepresentation of opposing viewpoints, undermining the possibility of constructive engagement. Intolerance breeds conflict, creating an environment where individuals of integrity may feel marginalized or silenced. This can occur when communities prioritize conformity over diversity, stifling the voices of those who advocate for understanding and dialogue. The Path Forward: Cultivating Integrity To navigate the complexities of religious diversity, it is imperative to cultivate integrity within both individuals and communities. Education, dialogue, and shared experiences are essential tools in this endeavour. Educational initiatives that promote religious literacy can empower individuals to engage with diverse beliefs meaningfully. By fostering an environment of curiosity and inquiry, communities can create spaces where people of integrity thrive. Encouraging interfaith dialogue is vital in breaking down barriers. Structured discussions that bring together individuals from different backgrounds can promote understanding and empathy. These dialogues should prioritize active listening and respect, allowing participants to share their perspectives without fear of judgment. Recognizing and celebrating shared valuesacross religious traditions can also strengthen bonds. Initiatives that highlight common ethical principles, such as compassion, justice, and respect, can foster a sense of unity amidst diversity. In conclusion, people of integrity are essential for navigating the rich tapestry of religious diversity in our world. Their commitment to knowledge, humility, sincerity, and sensibility allows them to engage constructively with differing beliefs. While challenges such as dogmatism and intolerance persist, cultivating integrity through education, dialogue, and shared values can pave the way for a more harmonious coexistence. In a time when divisions often dominate the narrative, the presence and actions of individuals of integrity can inspire hope and foster a more inclusive society. ----- Checkout Dr. Adis Duderija’s personal website at: https://dradisduderija.com/ ---- A decades old patron of New Age Islam, Dr Adis Duderija is a Senior Lecturer in the Study of Islam and Society, School of Humanities, Languages and Social Science; Senior Fellow Centre for Interfaith and Intercultural Dialogue, Griffith University | Nathan | Queensland | Australia. His forthcoming books are (co-edited)- Shame, Modesty, and Honora in Islam and Interfaith Engagement Beyond the Divide (Springer) URL: https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/integrity-rich-religious-diversity/d/133068 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism