This is a synopsis of the presentation by Dr. Van den Hoonard. Due to time constraints for that evening's presentations scheduling, he reads from his paper's abstract:
This paper explores four basic worldviews. They are as follows: orientation, philosophical, scientific and religious as expressed in the Baha’i writings and in the Baha’i community. These world views can be characterized as embryonic, integrative, the oasis view, and the composite view. The paper examines the practical implications of these worldviews for society in general and for development work inparticular. Finally the paper concludes that the seemingly divergent worldviews are a function of the various ways the Baha’i communities can participate in the affairs of the world.