Metodo

International Studies in Phenomenology and Philosophy

Book | Chapter

211961

Humility and religion

benefits, difficulties, and a model of religious tolerance

Elissa WoodruffDaryl R. Van Tongeren

pp. 271-285

Abstract

In this chapter, we explore the construct of humility, specifically focusing on its connections with religion, spirituality, and well-being. First, we review how the major world religions conceptualize and teach about the role of humility in living a virtuous life. Second, we review definitions of humility in psychological literature and summarize empirical research examining the associations between humility and well-being. Third, we explore the connections between religiousness and humility. Specifically, although religiousness may be one avenue to promote humility, we examine the paradox that, although most world religions teach and advocate for humility as a virtue, maintaining humility about one's religious convictions is often challenging. Finally, we explore the role of intellectual humility for addressing the challenges involved in remaining humble to divergent belief systems and as a mechanism for reducing between-group conflict among individuals who hold dissonant beliefs.

Publication details

Published in:

Kim-Prieto Chu (2014) Religion and spirituality across cultures. Dordrecht, Springer.

Pages: 271-285

DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-8950-9_14

Full citation:

Woodruff Elissa, Van Tongeren Daryl R. (2014) „Humility and religion: benefits, difficulties, and a model of religious tolerance“, In: C. Kim-Prieto (ed.), Religion and spirituality across cultures, Dordrecht, Springer, 271–285.