On Sociological Theology

Abstract

This paper discusses the history of theology in terms of ‘sociological theology’ rather than ‘theological theology’. Theological theology, as maintained by Barth and his defenders, may well be useful in its analysis of sanctity, but ill-equipped to analyse human sinfulness. Based on the sacred, it ignores the constraints and the pull of the secular, and the constant need to compromise. Critical history, and more particularly a critical use of the social sciences, can help the theologian discern something more of the subject-matter of theology (God) in his dealings with the world than a theological theology which fails to grasp the importance of the worldly. Against John Milbank, I argue that as a theme in theology, the secular requires thoroughgoing analysis in its shaping of theological language. Drawing on the work of the sociologist David Martin, I conclude that sociology and social history help in analysing the tragic dimension of theology and the Christian religion through history.