Pluralism

Pluralism denotes a positive and encouraging attitude towards diversity, be it in the religio-cultural, political or social realm. In recent years, the concept has gained increasing theoretical and practical importance. The Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (AKU-ISMC) is committed to the study of pluralism and as one of its key research areas held a series of seminars The Possibility of Pluralism from 2003 to 2007.

As a proponent of pluralism, the Aga Khan Development Network signed an agreement with the Canadian Government in 2006 to create a Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa. At that time, the Chancellor of Aga Khan University, His Highness the Aga Khan, noted that “Tolerance, openness and understanding towards other peoples' cultures, social structures, values and faiths are now essential to the very survival of an interdependent world … Pluralism is no longer simply an asset or a prerequisite for progress and development, it is vital to our existence.”

The Possibility of Pluralism has involved eminent scholars from around the world, discussing subjects such as secularism, multiculturalism, democracy, globalisation and the role of civil society.