Philosophy

Religion and belief relations in Scotland

Religious and non-religious philosophical beliefs are often cited by individuals and organisations as providing the inspiration for their desire to act for the common good and make positive contributions to society that benefit all.

But the same beliefs can also be misused to build barriers between people and communities; foster discrimination, inequality and conflict; reinforce stereotypes and fuel irrational fear and paranoia about those who are different from us. Such negative uses and interpretations only lead to fragmented communities living in fear and isolation. History has shown that in times of crisis, such as economic difficulties, rational thought can all too easily be lost to those who peddle prejudice and discrimination, creating scapegoats within communities for all of the societal problems we need to face and tackle together. We must prevent the differences between people from undermining community cohesion and becoming the source of division which pulls our communities apart. It is important to find ways of communicating openly, respectfully and constructively with one another and of accepting and celebrating diversity. Dialogue and collaborative social action can harness the power of good within religious and non-religious people and groups to work towards harmony, peace and shared respect and understanding.

Scotland is a small diverse country with many nationalities, cultures and beliefs.

It is committed to social cohesion, justice and equality.  This is exemplified by the inscription on the Scottish Mace which sits in the Scottish Parliament, clearly declaring to the world that our society is underpinned by the values of wisdom, justice, integrity and compassion.

Since the re-establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, there has been a renewed sense of Scottish identity with greater opportunities for civic engagement through increased levels of consultation and better access to decision-makers. This level of involvement in the future of our country is fundamental because, at its heart, the Scottish Parliament represents the will of Scotland’s people. 

Traditionally and historically, Scotland has been a predominantly Christian society and since the Reformation, predominantly Protestant.  However, Scottish society has historically also been diverse, with many minority beliefs having a long history of activity and membership in Scotland.  Modern Scotland is a multi-belief and multi-cultural country with its citizens subscribing to a wide range of traditions and beliefs. Some of these beliefs will be of a religious nature while others will be more philosophical and expressed through life stances such as humanism or secularism.

Vision

The vision that informs this good practice guide is one of a society in which Government and people recognise and appreciate that:

We share a common humanity and concern for the future of Scotland, beyond our differences.

Beliefs are important elements of a person’s identity.

All of the people living in Scotland have the right to their own beliefs and values. 

People have the right to speak from their value base when contributing to civic life.

Different religions and non-religious beliefs are to be respected as part of the diversity of society.

All the inhabitants of Scotland are interconnected in a way that makes them interdependent.

There is a need to listen to one another for the sake of the common good.

Aims

The aims of the Good Practice Guide are to:

Help provide guidance on building good relations among and between religious and belief communities.

Help develop multi-faceted approaches to interaction and dialogue.

Promote the positive values of:

Listening to, understanding and respecting one another.

Behaving well towards one another.

Creating opportunities for dialogue, including dialogue about controversial and difficult issues

Working together on issues of common concern.

Respectfully considering the views of all citizens.

Values

On the Scottish mace are the words compassion, wisdom, justice and integrity. These values upon which the Scottish Parliament was founded are the values that unite the political, educational, religious and non-religious sectors of society.  These values also influence the moral education of our children and young people, supporting them in developing and reflecting upon their own values and assisting in counteracting prejudice and intolerance.

Compassion, wisdom, justice and integrity are the values which underpin the philosophy and intent of this guidance document and are a foundation for recognising and developing good relations.

BELIEF IN DIALOGUE is a very particular kind of guidance document for dialogue. It is one which has the ultimate aim of encouraging constructive dialogue to take place between those who hold religious beliefs and those who hold non-religious beliefs. Such dialogue is vital if we are to live harmoniously together as a society and avoid the polarisation of opinion, the disenfranchisement of individuals and groups who feel their place in society is not valued or respected, and the isolation and vulnerability which leave people in fear of expressing their identity and beliefs.

BELIEF IN DIALOGUE - READ AND DOWNLOAD THE REPORT HERE