31 July 2019
Interreligious Relations (IRR) Issue 6 – Comparative Theology in the Academic Study of Religion: An Inquiry
Abstract:
This essay asks whether the new comparative theology merits a place in the academic study of religion. In the process, the meaning of “theology” and “comparative” (the latter with special reference to the comparative study of religion) in their current applications is clarified, and various distinctions are drawn between “old” and “new” modes of doing comparative religion and comparative theology (in the latter case, with special reference to the work of Francis X. Clooney). Several key questions relating to such study are raised and answered: whether there is a need to reveal the ideological stance of the scholar; whether “comparative” study in both disciplines is a viable exercise; whether fractal theory is applicable; what the nature of “truth” might be in these disciplines; and what kind of qualities or virtues they are expected to generate or require. Finally, a conclusion is drawn as to whether the new comparative theology merits a place in the academic study of religion.
Abstract:
This essay asks whether the new comparative theology merits a place in the academic study of religion. In the process, the meaning of “theology” and “comparative” (the latter with special reference to the comparative study of religion) in their current applications is clarified, and various distinctions are drawn between “old” and “new” modes of doing comparative religion and comparative theology (in the latter case, with special reference to the work of Francis X. Clooney). Several key questions relating to such study are raised and answered: whether there is a need to reveal the ideological stance of the scholar; whether “comparative” study in both disciplines is a viable exercise; whether fractal theory is applicable; what the nature of “truth” might be in these disciplines; and what kind of qualities or virtues they are expected to generate or require. Finally, a conclusion is drawn as to whether the new comparative theology merits a place in the academic study of religion.
