Review Of "Theology And Philosophy" By I. U. Dalferth

Document Type

Book Review

Publication Date

6-1-1989

Published In

Choice

Abstract

This interesting and perceptive study of the relationship between theology and philosophy contains three sections. Part 1 traces the relationship between theology and philosophy from the pre-Socratics to the rise of Christian theology. Part 2 discusses models of the relationship between these two domains proposed by various theologians: Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Locke, Schleiermacher, and Barth. Although each model has advantages, it is Dalferth's conclusion that no all-embracing solution can be reached. He claims that the most that can be done is to achieve a harmony between the perspective of reason and the perspective of faith such that one can translate between them. Part 3 treats the problem of theological reflection. Dalferth (University of Tubingen) believes that Christian theology must begin from a revelational perspective where the reflective task is to elucidate, not only particular doctrines, but also the whole of reality. This book has then both an expository and a constructive intent. Those interested primarily in the history of doctrine will have much to learn from it, and those seeking a resolution of contemporary issues will be challenged and engaged. This study will be most helpful to faculty and graduate students in theology and the philosophy of religion.

Comments

This work is freely available courtesy of Choice Reviews. The review has been reproduced in full in the abstract field.

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