Full Subtitle: When the World's Religions Sit Down to Talk about the Future of Human Life and the Plight of This PlanetThis short volume seeks to capture the energy and dynamism of these world religious traditionsa central force in human history and societyfor illuminating and addressing major global issues: population growth, environmental destruction, freedom, the rights of women and minorities, the place of economics and work, issues of sexuality and the body. Based on consultations of leading scholars and religious leaders from a variety of traditions, and worked out in conjunction with international conferences sponsored by the Religious Consultation on Population, Reproductive Health, and Ethics, this book highlights the special insights and lessons each major religious tradition has to offer today.