The Oxford Handbook of the Epistemology of Theology

The Oxford Handbook of the Epistemology of Theology explores appropriate epistemic evaluation in theology, focusing on traditional and contemporary concepts such as knowledge of God, revelation, reason, faith, experience, tradition, understanding, wisdom, testimony, virtue, evidence, foundationalism, realism/antirealism, skepticism, and disagreement. It also examines examples from key figures in the Christian tradition and discusses the challenges of connecting insights from contemporary epistemology with theology.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 656 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Oxford Handbook of the Epistemology of Theology is a groundbreaking work that brings together leading scholars from the fields of theology and epistemology to explore and define what constitutes appropriate epistemic evaluation in the realm of theology. This comprehensive handbook is divided into four parts, each addressing different aspects of epistemic evaluation in theology.

Part One: Exploring Traditional Epistemic Concepts

In Part One, the handbook delves into some of the epistemic concepts that have been traditionally employed in theology, including knowledge of God, revelation and scripture, reason and faith, experience, and tradition. It also examines concepts that have not received sufficient epistemological attention in theology, such as saints, authority, ecclesial practices, spiritual formation, and discernment. By examining these concepts, the handbook seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the epistemic landscape within theology.

Part Two: Examining Contemporary Epistemic Concepts

Part Two focuses on epistemic concepts that have received significant attention in contemporary epistemology and can be related to theology. These concepts include understanding, wisdom, testimony, virtue, evidence, foundationalism, realism/antirealism, skepticism, and disagreement. The handbook explores how these concepts can be applied to theology and provides examples from key figures in the Christian tradition to illustrate their relevance. It also recognizes the challenges of connecting insights from contemporary epistemology with the subject of theology proper, namely, God.

Part Three: Engaging with Key Figures in the Christian Tradition

Part Three offers examples from key figures in the Christian tradition and investigates the relevant epistemological issues and insights in these writers. It recognizes the complexities and nuances of their thought and explores how their insights can be applied to contemporary epistemological debates. The handbook also acknowledges the challenges of connecting insights from contemporary epistemology with the subject of theology proper, namely, God.

Part Four: Emerging Epistemological Areas

Part Four centres on five emerging areas that warrant further epistemological consideration: liberation theology, continental philosophy, modern orthodox writers, feminism, and Pentecostalism. The handbook explores how these areas can contribute to the development of epistemology in theology and provides insights into the epistemological challenges and opportunities they present. It also identifies relevant epistemic considerations that can guide the exploration of these areas.

In conclusion, The Oxford Handbook of the Epistemology of Theology is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of epistemic evaluation in theology. By bringing together leading scholars from both fields, the handbook offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the epistemic landscape within theology. It provides valuable insights into traditional and contemporary epistemic concepts, engages with key figures in the Christian tradition, and highlights emerging epistemological areas that warrant further consideration. This handbook will be an essential resource for scholars, students, and practitioners interested in the epistemology of theology and its implications for religious practice and belief.

Weight: 1122g
Dimension: 171 x 247 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198816621