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35 - Undergraduate Research in Theology and Religious Studies

from Part III.4 - Humanities

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 August 2022

Harald A. Mieg
Affiliation:
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
Elizabeth Ambos
Affiliation:
Council on Undergraduate Research, Washington DC
Angela Brew
Affiliation:
Macquarie University, Sydney
Dominique Galli
Affiliation:
Indiana University–Purdue University, Indianapolis
Judith Lehmann
Affiliation:
Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Summary

The classical definition of theology reflects fides quaerens intellectum (faith seeking understanding). This definition underscores the premier role of faith, reason, and critical thinking in the exercise of theological studies. Religious studies for its part is a social science study of religion, which also applies critical thinking and reason in its research, but does not necessarily require faith. Therefore, both theology and religious studies have thrived by the application of the tools for critical thinking and reason. For undergraduate research in theology or religious studies, the methodological approach of students depends on the focus of the course. The different sub-disciplines of theology or religious studies adopt different approaches to research. Therefore, a course on the history of the Bible would require different research method and approach than a course about social justice or comparative religion. However, regardless of the course, it is important to always bear in mind that a typical piece of research on religious studies or theology will likely adopt diverse research approaches and methods.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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References

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