E-Book Overview
In this book, theologians reflect on sociological methods, explore social theories of the human agent, and offer a theological transformation of sociology. Spanning such developments as local, non-stipendiary ministries, the identification of the roots of church growth, and giving voice to gay and lesbian Christians, this collection of innovative essays provides a fascinating and important dialogue on how the seemingly disparate fields of sociology and theology can illuminate and enrich one other. This is essential reading for anyone concerned with the shifting dynamics of these two disciplines.
E-Book Content
Sociology, Theology and the Curriculum Theology in Dialogue Series Series Editor: Ian Markham The Theology in Dialogue series is an internationally supported response to a pressing need to explore the relationship between theology and the different, ostensibly secular, academic disciplines which appear within the degree programmes of colleges and universities. It has been developed by The Council of Church and Associated Colleges (CCAC), a network of UK-based colleges and universities which have Church foundations. Each volume begins with a chapter and a reply, providing a thoughtful justification for the interaction of theology and each subject. This is followed by a theoretical analysis of this interaction, and a range of case studies illustrating the difference this makes in the classroom. All volumes contain contributions from the most highly respected scholars in their field. Other books in the series: English Literature, Theology and the Curriculum edited by Liam Gearon The grand narrative of theology and the many narratives of literature have interacted with complex and culturally enriching results over the centuries. This volume provides an enlivened, interdisciplinary debate between the fields of English literature and theology. The analysis of this textual dynamic ranges from varied, historical case studies in theology and literature, to practical concerns centring upon effective models of curriculum innovation, especially, but not exclusively, in higher education. Spirituality and the Curriculum edited by Adrian Thatcher 'Spirituality' and 'spiritual development' are increasingly widespread concepts, particularly within the pastoral profession of education. In this volume, leading theologians and educationalists discuss spirituality from the point of view of theology, its home discipline, and apply the results of their enquiries to the curriculum in colleges and schools. Theology in Dialogue Series Series Editor: Ian Markham Sociology, Theology and the Curriculum Edited by Leslie J. Francis CASSELL London and New York Cassell Wellington House, 125 Strand, London WC2R OBB 370 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10017-6550 © Leslie J. Francis and the contributors 1999 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the publishers. First published 1999 British Library Cataloguing-in-Publication Data A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. ISBN 0-304-70485-7 Typeset by BookEns Ltd, Royston, Herts. Printed and bound in Great Britain by Biddies Ltd, Guildford and King's Lynn Contents Series Editor's Foreword The Contributors vii ix Preface Leslie ]. Francis xi Part I Foundations 1 Christian Foundations, Sociological Fundamentals David Martin 2 A Theological Response to Sociology Ronald Preston 1 50 Part II Theoretical Perspectives 3 Theological Reflection and Sociological Method Andrew Dawson 4 Socia