Religion and Society
The topic of religion is becoming increasingly prevalent in the media. Hardly a day goes by without a report on some aspect of religious life. Given the many forms of religious and spiritual life in today's world, there is a great need for an in-depth analysis of current data on the subject. In keeping with its tradition of serving the common good, the Bertelsmann Stiftung wants to ensure that society is capable of addressing both its current and future challenges. That includes its ability to deal with the cultural and sociological aspects of religion. A key part of the project's efforts will therefore be dedicated to looking beyond traditional institutions to what Robert Musil has called "the religion of those without religion."
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Focus Areas
Religion Monitor
Given the increased importance of religion in modern society, reliable data are needed as a basis for informed discussion. The Bertelsmann Stiftung has therefore joined forces with religion specialists, sociologists, psychologists and theologians to develop the Religion Monitor, an analytical tool designed to illuminate the multifaceted nature of religious belief and practice. Two of the Religion Monitor's key components are an international survey carried out in 21 countries and an online questionnaire that provides users with a comparative look at their own attitudes toward religion and faith.
The Future of Christianity
In one of its key project areas, the Religion Monitor is examining the future of Christianity in Germany. Although well over 50 million Germans say they are Christian, little is known about how demographic and cultural shifts will affect German society in general and its Christian traditions in particular. The Bertelsmann Stiftung is thus organizing discussion forums, working groups and other events designed to promote exchange on the subject, as a way of supporting the country's churches as they refocus their social activities.
Interreligious Competence
Given the increasing internationalization and pluralism that modern society is subject to, interreligious competence is becoming a key skill. The Religion Monitor is therefore developing new approaches to promote successful interreligious dialogue and, in particular, to examine how interreligious competence can be acquired. The project thus organizes expert panels, exchange programs and discussion forums to help increase the interreligious competence of opinion and thought leaders.
Interdisciplinary Topics
In addition to these three focal areas, the Bertelsmann Stiftung is committed to examining a series of interdisciplinary topics that bring together religious and social issues. One such area is Religion and Education, designed to explore a number of questions, including whether education must include religious topics if it is to effectively address current and coming social challenges, whether religion plays a role in imparting values, and whether religious education should be strictly a private affair. More information on current activities in this area can be found under "News."
Publications
Modernity, Pluralism and the Crisis of Meaning
The Orientation of Modern Man
Peter L. Berger, Thomas Luckmann
1st edition 1995, 74 Pages
Broschur
ISBN 978-3-89204-173-3
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