The Relationships between Religious Studies, Religious Education and Theology: Big Brother, Little Sister and the Clerical Uncle?

Abstract

This article explores the relationships between Religious Education and Religious Studies, and Religious Education and Theology. It challenges the assumption that Religious Education is a second order activity of lesser status, through examining the nature of religious education, of religion and of knowledge, and the relationship between theory and practice, drawing on the insights of liberation theology and feminist thought. Whilst recognising the closer relationship that Religious Education has with Religious Studies, it examines the contribution Theology can make to non‐confessional RE, and suggests that academic Religious Studies and Theology should put an end to their historic quarrel. The use of the word ‘Theology’ to describe the activity engaged in by pupils when exploring their own beliefs and values is examined and rejected. It concludes that the three disciplines should view themselves as equal partners with distinct, but complementary roles