Seelsorge und 'das Bose': Zum Umgang mit Wertungsunterschieden in der Gefangnisseelsorge

This study explores how pastoral workers should respond to their counterparts' most heinous, evil acts using legal, human-scientific, and theological discourses. It proposes a practical-theological model called normative difference* to establish a connecting pastoral care situation despite significant differences in evaluation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2022
Publisher: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht GmbH & Co KG

This study employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from legal, human-scientific, and theological discourses, to demonstrate that the concept of "evil" cannot be universally applied. Recognizing the diverse worlds of values, the author proposes a practical-theological model known as "normative difference*." This model entails a precise perception and corresponding communication practice, aimed at establishing a connecting pastoral care situation despite significant differences in evaluation.

The study begins by exploring legal perspectives, which argue that the term "evil" lacks a precise definition and can vary greatly depending on cultural, historical, and legal contexts. It highlights the complexities of attributing moral blame or responsibility to individuals or groups when dealing with acts that are considered evil.

In contrast, human-scientific discourses emphasize the role of individual psychology, social factors, and environmental influences in shaping behavior. The study explores how these factors can contribute to the commission of evil acts and the challenges faced by pastoral workers in understanding and responding to such behavior.

Theological discourses, on the other hand, offer a spiritual and ethical framework for understanding evil. The study examines how religious beliefs, values, and traditions can shape perceptions of evil and provide guidance for pastoral workers in addressing these issues.

Building upon these diverse discourses, the author develops the "normative difference*" model. This model emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the values and perspectives of individuals and communities, even when they differ significantly from our own. It proposes a compassionate and empathetic approach to pastoral care that seeks to understand and address the underlying causes of evil behavior.

The model includes several key components. Firstly, it encourages pastoral workers to adopt a non-judgmental stance, avoiding the temptation to categorize individuals or groups as inherently evil. Instead, they are encouraged to approach each situation with an open mind and a willingness to learn and understand.

Secondly, the model emphasizes the importance of communication in pastoral care. Pastoral workers are taught to listen actively, express empathy and compassion, and provide support and guidance to individuals who are struggling with evil acts. They are also encouraged to use appropriate language and metaphors to communicate their understanding and support.

Thirdly, the model proposes a collaborative approach to pastoral care, involving the participation of multiple stakeholders, including religious leaders, mental health professionals, and community members. By working together, pastoral workers can create a comprehensive and holistic response to evil acts, addressing the underlying social, psychological, and spiritual factors that contribute to such behavior.

In conclusion, this study employs a multidisciplinary approach to demonstrate that the concept of "evil" cannot be generalized. By drawing from legal, human-scientific, and theological discourses, the author proposes a practical-theological model known as "normative difference*." This model emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting the values and perspectives of individuals and communities, adopting a non-judgmental stance, communicating effectively, and collaborating to address the underlying causes of evil behavior. This approach provides pastoral workers with a framework for responding to the most terrible, evil acts of a counterpart in a compassionate and empathetic manner.

Dimension: 235 x 160 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783525560495