Analytic Theology vs. Ordinary Theology. Characteristic Similarities and Differences between Analytical-Theological Rationality and the Narrative Rationality of Lay Believers

• Applicants: Dr. Johannes Grössl; Professor Dr. Ulrich Riegel
• Subject Area: Roman Catholic Theology
• Term: since 2020
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 439415467

Representatives of Analytic Theology claim that precise definitions of terms, clearly structured logical arguments, and model thinking oriented towards consistency and coherence are constitutive for academic theology; this seems to discredit a narrative, experiential, and situational approach to theological questions. For theology as an academic discipline, however, a mutual enrichment of professional and lay theological discourse is of great importance, since theology aims to support believers in the reflection and development of their faith. In this research project it will be examined to what extent the analytical analysis of the central theological motif of Jesus' atoning death as an example, shows structural similarities and differences of the argumentation patterns of ordinary believers. Therefore the systematic work-package will analyze the analytical-theological discourse on Jesus’ atoning death of the last 25 years by the method of Discourse Analysis. The practical-theological work-package will analyze the discussion of lay believers of this motif (N = 20) by the method of Documentary method. Finally, the comparative work-package will work out characteristic similarities and differences of both interpretation and argumentation between both discourses by Qualitative Comparative Analysis. The findings will help to systematically clarify the relationship of Analytic Theology and Ordinary Theology on theoretical level. Further on, on practical level it will bring about to what extent the analytical method can promote the reflection of faith by lay believers when they are confronted with argumentation patterns in a analytic style.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants