Abstract (eng)
This thesis explores the possibility and the roots of tolerance in Islam and Christianity, thereby focusing especially on the basis for a peaceful and fruitful coexistence of Mus-lims and Christians in Austria. It comprises three sections, an introductory, a theoretical, and a practical one. The middle part presents a critical survey, from a comparative systematic perspective, of religious studies literature and juxtaposes Christian theology and scholarly Islamic positions on the issue of tolerance. The third, practical section examines the Subjective Theories of a Catholic and a Muslim student on the issue of tolerance.
To this end, the basic concepts on tolerance held by individuals are reconstructed fol-lowing the approach of the „Research Program Subjective Theories“ and the „Heidel-berger Struktur-Lege-Technik“ (SLT). Taking as a given that it is of paramount importance for our future what assumptions and concepts the young generation harbors, very young women were chosen as interviewees. The focus was on probing the possibil-ities of a peaceful coexistence in Austria – in a both multireligious and secular society where Christians, Muslims, and dissenters cross each other’s paths. Proceeding on the assumption that tolerance ranks as a prerequisite for a peaceful coexistence, a compari-son is drawn between how tolerance has been studied from an academic perspective and what the thoughts of two young Vienna women are on this topic.
The result shows that, in essence, their Subjective Theories correspond to the theoretical findings discussed in the second chapter as well as to the intentions of the schools the girls attend. Tolerance as a means to peace is the common denominator of all these positions. In summary, the following picture emerges: Christian theology lays the foun-dation for tolerance with its recognition of inviolable human dignity, love for neighbor and enemy, as well as reverence for God and his Creation. All of these notions are closely connected to the central Christian principle of solidarity. Solidarity ranks as a high priority in Islam, too. Here we find common ground between the two religions. Despite contradictory interpretations, a fundamental positive attitude towards tolerance is found in the Koran. Several of its passages as well as historical periods and Muslim scholars give evidence of Islam’s acceptance of a divinely ordained plurality (sura 5:48), the aspect of peace (Islam/Salam), as well as dignity and singularity of the individual (sura 5:32).
The emerging Subjective Theories on tolerance reveal a matter-of-course approach to the issue and stress the importance of mutual respect as well as acceptance of other religious communities and ways of life. Additionally, Subjective Theories contain an „experience“ component (regarding openness towards and development of tolerance). Positive or negative experiences related to other religions generate readiness for tolerance or intolerance. This translates into a reminder to all parties to foster awareness of the effects of their own behavior and actions.