Religious Studies in Canada and Brazil: Pro-pluralism and anti-theology in context

Abstract

Religious Studies can be more effective if it is critical of its normative allegiances. To support this claim, this paper explores two value-stances that have shaped the Canadian field: anti-theology (reflecting American church-state relations) and pro-pluralism (reflecting post- Charter concerns over religious freedom in Canada) . It suggests that highlighting possible contributions of Religious Studies to the nation, a self-positioning of scholars of religion as experts in pluralism, would be an appropriate successor to the American influences that shaped the growth of the field. The study of religion in Brazil provides an example largely free from anti-theology and pro-pluralism. As such, it prompts us to reflect on how past circumstances have evoked these normative stances in the Canadian field, and whether they should continue here.