to be sure the comparative study of religion is not just a matter of knowledge but also of capacity
It requires a certain tolerance and respect for diversity. The great outward variety of religious life with its many conflicting worldviews and practices must somehow be matched by a commensurate in ward capacity to comprehend and understand it.
This is obviously no small premise. Nor is it just an academic matter that can be taught. For those with highly
specific or narrow religious commitments there is often a real difficulty here. To be open even conceptually
or momentarily to what another system is saying might be felt as a violation of one's own position and allegiances.