Convictions, Cultures, and Interculturality: On Some Theoretical Models of Pluralism

This essay considers the concepts of conviction and culture in relation to the central issue of intercultural dialogue. To what extent is it legitimate to support one’s own convictions? How is it possible to carry out an authentic, critical, yet peaceful dialogue with those who profess beliefs as strong as one’s own? This is why questions arise regarding the coexistence of the numerous beliefs and concrete expressions of many cultures. This essay reflects on the complex question of the conditions and methods required in order to implement intercultural dialogue effectively. To this end, a path is presented which aims to highlight some of the conceptual models that represent the most significant and influential theoretical-philosophical roots of the current, increasingly interdisciplinary, debate on interculturality. An analysis is then proposed of five possible theoretical paradigms of intercultural pluralism: the universalist-minimal model; the universalist-solidaristic model; the phronetic-hermeneutic model; the translational model; and the meditative-contemplative model.