proselytisme

Prosélytisme, or proselytism in English, is the act or practice of attempting to convert someone from their current faith or beliefs to another. The term derives from Greek proselytos meaning a new convert, passing through Latin proselytus before entering English and other languages. It is used across religious traditions to describe organized campaigns or informal efforts aimed at recruiting converts.

The scope and methods of prosélytisme vary. It can include personal conversations, doorstep preaching, distribution of religious literature, public preaching, and modern media or online outreach. In some traditions it is considered a central duty or mission, while in others it is framed primarily as dialogue or education. Ethically, debates often focus on the boundary between voluntary persuasion and coercion, manipulation, or pressure, with emphasis on consent and respect for autonomy.

Legal and social treatments of prosélytisme differ by jurisdiction. Many liberal democracies protect freedom of religion and freedom of expression, allowing individuals to share beliefs, while restricting harassment, discrimination, or coercive tactics. Some places place limits on religious solicitation in schools, workplaces, or public spaces, or prohibit targeting vulnerable groups such as minors. In secular or plural societies, prosélytisme can provoke tensions between the rights of individuals to propagate beliefs and goals of social cohesion and pluralism.

Scholars distinguish prosélytisme from related concepts such as evangelism, mission work, or interfaith dialogue, though overlaps occur. Views range from criticizing aggressive methods to defending religious liberty and personal conscience in matters of belief and conversion.