The Study of Religion in the Classroom? Educational Theory and Religious Education Practice in a German Perspective

Abstract

Abstract The German discussion about religious education focuses mainly on the question which discipline, apart from pedagogy, is most relevant to religious education: theology or the Study of Religion (Religionswissenschaft). In this article, however, it is suggested that this controversy ignores a more fundamental question: why and how can we explore religion with children in a scholarly way? The author argues that both theology and the Study of Religion can be regarded as committed to the educational project of ‘Science for children and young people’. The difference lies in their respective underlying values. Secular educational theory needs Study of Religion, which is not value-free nor represents secular preaching. Firstly the competition between the two approaches in the German educational system is dealt with. Then the reasons for exploring religion scientifically are considered and how this should be done. Next, the popularisation of the Study of Religion as part of the educational project ‘Science for children and young people’ is outlined, and finally a proposal is made to include the Study of Religion in educational theory.