Terror, Religion, and Liberal Thought

Religious violence may trigger feelings of repulsion and indignation, especially in a society that encourages toleration and respect, but rejection contradicts the very principles of inclusion that define a democracy and its core moral values. How are we to think ethically about religious violence and terrorism, especially in the wake of an atrocity such as 9/11?Known for his skillful interrogation of ethical issues pertaining to religion, politics, and culture, Richard B. Miller returns to the basic tenets of liberalism to divine an ethical response to extremism. He questions how we are to think about the claims and aspirations of political religions that conflict so deeply with liberal norms and practices, and he suggests how liberal critics can speak in ways that respect cultural and religious difference. Miller explores other concerns within these investigations as well, such as the protection of human rights and a liberal democratic commitment to multicultural politics. As he relates religion and ethics, Miller casts a new screen through which we can view political religions and their moral responsibilities. His probing queries also force us to rethink our violent response to 9/11.