Religious toleration in Western and Central European countries

On the basis of data collected with representative samples in eleven European countries, within the framework of the Religious and Moral Pluralism (RAMP) study undertaken in 1997-9,1 we will analyse the tolerance of individuals towards minority religions and towards particular religious beliefs, rituals and norms. We will begin by describing the historical and theoretical background of toleration, and the factors that might influence intolerance and discriminatory behaviour. This will help us to state our research questions.