Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand the fundamental concepts and scope of theology and its various branches.
- Analyze key theological themes including the nature of God, problem of evil, and the role of scriptures.
- Evaluate diverse theological perspectives across traditions and contemporary issues.
- Develop critical thinking on the relationship between faith, reason, and ethics in theology.
- Explore liberation and comparative theology to appreciate theology's social and interfaith dimensions.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 4560: Foundations and Contemporary Perspectives in Theology
1. Introduction to Theology
1.1 Definition of Theology
- Meaning and etymology
- Purpose and aims
1.2 Scope of Theology
- Branches: Systematic, Historical, Moral, Comparative, Liberation
- Interdisciplinary nature
2. The Nature of God
2.1 Attributes of God
- Omnipotence, Omniscience, Omnipresence
- Immanence vs Transcendence
2.2 Theological Perspectives
- Monotheistic views
- Polytheistic and pantheistic perspectives
- Process theology and other modern views
3. Religious Scriptures and Sacred Texts
3.1 Significance in Theology
- Role in faith and practice
- Authority and inspiration
3.2 Interpretation Methods
- Hermeneutics and exegesis
- Literal vs allegorical readings
- Contextual and historical approaches
4. The Problem of Evil
4.1 Conceptualizing Evil
- Definitions and categories (moral, natural evil)
4.2 Origins and Existence
- Theodicy: attempts to reconcile evil with an omnibenevolent God
- Free will defense
- Soul-making theodicy
4.3 Implications for Theology
- Impact on beliefs about God's nature
- Challenges to faith
5. Faith and Reason in Theology
5.1 Relationship Overview
- Complementarity and tension between faith and reason
5.2 Philosophical Engagement
- Rational arguments for God’s existence
- Role of revelation and mysticism
5.3 Contemporary Perspectives
- Dialogue between science and theology
6. Liberation Theology
6.1 Origins and Historical Context
- Latin American roots
- Key figures and texts
6.2 Principles and Focus
- Emphasis on social justice and the poor
- Praxis and activism
6.3 Impact on Theology and Society
- Influence on global theological discourse
7. Comparative Theology
7.1 Purpose and Methodology
- Dialogue vs. syncretism
- Comparative analysis techniques
7.2 Case Studies
- Comparative beliefs about God, salvation, and ethics
- Interfaith dialogue and understanding
8. Theological Ethics
8.1 Ethical Theories in Theology
- Natural law, divine command, virtue ethics
8.2 Key Concepts
- Morality, sin, virtue, and ethical decision-making
8.3 Application
- Contemporary moral issues within religious contexts
9. Historical Development of Theology
9.1 Early Theology
- Patristic and medieval periods
9.2 Reformation and Modern Era
- Major movements and figures
9.3 Contemporary Trends
- Postmodern and liberation influences
10. Contemporary Issues in Theology
10.1 Theology and Science
- Evolution, cosmology, and theological responses
10.2 Technology and Ethics
- Bioethics, AI, and theological reflections
10.3 Gender and Theology
- Feminist theology and gender justice
10.4 Environmental Theology
- Eco-theology and stewardship of creation
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