This World or Another? : Mapping Modern Theologies

• Main Author: Janson, Jens
• Format: Others
• Language: English
• Published: Uppsala universitet, Teologiska institutionen 2021
• Subjects: model; map; typology; modern theology; transcendence; immanence; spatiality; temporality; eschatology; eschatological proviso; history; secularization; secular; Kingdom of God; ecotheology; hope; disappointment; desire; tension; Religious Studies; Religionsvetenskap
• Online Access: http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-451207

In view of the complexity characterizing the contemporary discipline of academic theology, there is a need for functional models. Against the background of significant developments in twentieth-century theology, this thesis attempts to develop an analytical model which can make sense of some of the complexity characterizing this field. More specifically, the aim is to produce a model which can be used to distinguish between and relate different theological positions to each other at a meta-level. This is achieved through the elaboration of a two-dimensional typology composed of four quadrants representing distinct theological orientations. The proposed model and its analytical categories form the basis for a discussion of some key figures and themes in modern theology, with a particular emphasis on eschatologically oriented theologies. Finally, on the basis of preceding discussions, a case is made for theology’s ability to fulfill a vital cultural-critical role in a secular context.