Can theology be a science? An epistemological reflection
Author(s) -
Gabriel Andrade
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
mètode revista de difusió de la investigació
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2174-9221
pISSN - 2174-3487
DOI - 10.7203/metode.12.16612
Subject(s) - appeal , meaning (existential) , faith , epistemology , natural theology , philosophy , natural science , reflection (computer programming) , sociology , theology , law , political science , computer science , programming language
Many dubious disciplines have been removed from academic institutions, but theology is not one of them, as it is still taught in respectable universities. This article argues that theology does not deserve that special treatment. Theology has long pretended to be a science, but it can never be, because ultimately, theology is grounded on faith and authority, two tenets that run counter to the scientific method. Natural theology appeals to evidence and reason, but it also fails in its endeavor. More recent theologians admit that their discipline is not science per se, but still consider it legitimate in its quest for meaning. There are also reasons to doubt this claim, as there is no need to appeal to the supernatural to find meaning.
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