Theological Method and Hermeneutics

This course examines methodological features of constructive theological reflection, focusing on hermeneutics as a strategic way of thinking about the role of texts, traditions and social location in doing theology. Taking a broadly historical approach that focuses on modern and contemporary periods, attention is given to philosophical and contextual interpretation theories in conjunction with liberal, postliberal, liberationist, feminist and other theological methodologies. The aim is to better understand how theological sources, processes, criteria, and aims are determined and become reflected in specific theological formulations€”for instance, regarding the character of faith, authority, revelation, role of philosophical reflection, social justice, cultural contexts, intercultural, de/post-colonial dynamics, and religious pluralism.