Episode 021 - Ali Hassannia, Between “Religious Intolerance” and “Holy Ignorance”: Discussion of Misconceptions about Religious Freedom

Dr. Ali Hassannia is Assistant Professor, Department of Qur’an and Hadith Studies, Shahed University of Iran. He has a PhD in Theology and Islamic Studies and has published multiple papers in Persian, Arabic and English.

The paper he presented at the 7th International Islam and Liberty Conference was based on the analytical descriptive method using Quranic notions, traditional and Islamic teachings and views of thinkers. It aimed at discussing the limits of tolerance in Islam, particularly concerning freedom, and how some misconceptions could cause the tragic phenomenon of “holy ignorance”. It also criticized both Muslim and Western opinions in this regard. Finally, it showed the connection between intolerance, holy ignorance, radicalism, and lack of a sound understanding of religion.

Visit our website at islamandlibertynetwork.org for his paper and presentation