Abstract

Religious diversity has been a subject of many discussions and debates. Many scholars have concluded that although many religions exist, we can maintain a more accommodating and pluralistic attitude to this diversity. However, we may find contradictions when we reduce religious beliefs to their most fundamental tenets. Preferring one over the other may ultimately result in rejecting the contrary beliefs as false or unacceptable. Since religious beliefs have truth claims, they have epistemological importance. However, the challenge of religious diversity is not only on the epistemic level but more so in the social and political domains. This paper discusses the diversity of religions in Asia. It evaluates three views that may explain such diversity: Alvin Plantinga’s exclusivism, Karl Rahner’s inclusivism, and John Hick’s pluralism. Finally, it offers ways to respond to the challenge of religious diversity.