Studying Christian Theology in the Secular University
Abstract
In this article, I take my own position within an ongoing debate about
what place (if any) Christian theology should have within the secular
university. Against both “secularists” and “sectarians,” I argue that we
can and should locate the study (teaching and learning) of theology
squarely within the secular university, once we cease to demand that
all academic study within the secular university be framed by a narrowly
defined and overly constrictive “secular perspective.” Freed from
the controlling dogma of the “secular perspective,” theology in the
secular university can proceed unhindered in its quest for knowledge,
following the classical method of “faith seeking understanding,” while
still remaining remarkably inclusive of, and respectful toward, those
who do not share specific theological commitments.