Religion in the Future Global Civilization

The September-October 2006 of The Futurist contains a feature article by Thomas R. McFaul, professor of ethics and religious studies emeritus at North Central College and author of the forthcoming book, The Future of Peace and Justice in the Global Village: The Role of the World Religions in the 21st Century.

In "Religion in the Future Global Civilization," McFaul explores three possible scenarios as to whether the world religions will bring greater peace and justice or more hatred and hostility into the global village.

• Scenario 1 - Exclusivism: I'm Right and You're Wrong
• Scenario 2 - Pluralism: Despite our Differences, We Can Live Together
• Scenario 3 - Inclusivism: We're Becoming One Family

McFaul concludes, "...the future will likely move toward greater Exclusivism, greater Pluralism, or some combination of the two.  For this author, the most probable future is this: From now until 2025, Exclusivism will increase.  Between 2025 and 2050, Pluralism will gradually replace it."