Discerning Religion's Holistic Character and Ecumenical Capability in a Pluralistic Society: The Potential Contribution of the Integral Theory

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What is the role that religion (or its inner discourse known as “theology”) can play in modern secular societies that are characterized by pluralism and diversity? Does it still have a legitimate presence that could be a force for good, especially to further peace and harmony in our globalized world? This essay endeavors to respond to these urgent questions by proposing a concrete discernment tool, something that would act like a conceptual map of what is proposed as the ideal, most holistic kind of religion-spirituality that could make a valuable contribution even to pluralistic societies, one that is envisioned to be more comprehensive, inclusive, and complete; one that can be described as truly “ecumenical” and “without walls”; one that is able to include and embrace the whole world with all its diversity. The discernment tool/conceptual map recommended here is the “Integral Theory.” This essay suggests that the Integral Theory as a whole and its key components carry a promising potential to discern forms of religion, theology, and spirituality as to their holistic and integral character. It also provides key insights on how a particular religious tradition or spirituality could move toward a greater wholeness and ecumenical capability and thus be a true force for good in today’s pluralistic and diverse world.