Liberalism Versus Postliberalism The Great Divide In Twentiethcentury Theology

By John Allan

Book Description

This scholarly exploration delves into one of the most significant theological debates of the modern era, examining the fundamental divide between liberal and postliberal approaches to understanding faith and religious truth. John Allan presents a rigorous philosophical analysis of how these two major theological movements differ in their methods of interpretation and their understanding of religious language itself.

The book offers fresh insights into the famous "theology and falsification" debates that shaped religious discourse in the 1950s and 1960s, providing readers with a new lens through which to understand these pivotal discussions. Allan draws upon four decades of developments in analytic philosophy of language to illuminate the deeper methodological tensions that separate liberal and postliberal theologians.

Rather than simply taking sides in this theological divide, Allan identifies significant problems with both approaches and proposes a more inclusive methodology that honors the genuine aspirations of each position. His work bridges the gap between abstract philosophical analysis and practical theological application, making complex ideas accessible to those seeking to understand how different theological traditions approach questions of meaning, truth, and religious experience.

For readers interested in the intersection of philosophy and spirituality, this book provides valuable tools for navigating contemporary religious thought and understanding how different theological frameworks shape our approach to faith and meaning-making in the modern world.