Azim Nanji

5 May 2003

Rethinking our world: the search for a pluralist vision [95 kb, PDF]

Abstract

This lecture provides evidence for the need to “rethink” our world in terms of education, particularly regarding the notion of pluralism.

It begins by discussing the history of institutions devoted to international unity, compassion and awareness. It then examines possible definitions of the word “international” by comparing notions of globalization, and suggests a strong relationship between pluralism and internationalism.

Professor Nanji explores traditional international boundaries (civilization, market economies, democracy and theology), and suggests that all these boundaries are shifting. Education must anticipate these changes and encourage “seeds of avoidance”.

He explores pluralism in relation to religious stereotypes and provides historical examples of how pluralism has emerged as a powerful force; examples that could be used to great effect within an international curriculum.

In the final part of this lecture Professor Nanji consolidates the discussions by exploring the rethinking of international education through the principals of complexity, pluralism, moral reasoning, building partnerships and spirituality.

Professor Nanji is director of the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), London, United Kingdom.

The IIS is a leading institution for the promotion of scholarship and learning on Islam, with emphasis on Shi'ism in general and Ismailism in particular.

Azim Nanji was previously professor and chair of the Department of Religion at the University of Florida and has taught at a number of academic institutions in North America, including McGill University of Haverford College. He has authored, co-authored and edited several books including Mapping Islamic Studies (1997) and is undertaking a new volume on Islam for Penguin publishers. He has published numerous articles and he serves on the editorial board for The Encyclopaedia of Religion.

Azim Nanji has served on several international programmes concerned with education and is currently vice-chair of the early childhood programmes based in East Africa. In 2002, he addressed the North American Regional Conference of the International Baccalaureate in Victoria, Canada.