Reading the Social Sciences Theologically (Part 1): Approaching and Qualifying Models of Human Development

Abstract

Part 1 of 2. This series of articles seeks to present a viable hermeneutical framework according to which Christian scholars and educators may read social scientific literature with theological clarity. Part 1 establishes the manner in which Christians may profitably approach and qualify social science models of human development. The “principle of inverse consistency,” introduced at the conclusion of this article, is put forth as a conceptual tool for interpreting developmental models with confessional and intellectual virtue.

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“…Although Ruether is considered a Christian theologian and ethicist; nonetheless, her concept of Christianity is so disparate with a doctrinally confessional faith that the appropriation will be considered from the perspective of merging Christianity with a secular concept, Ruether obviously representing the latter. Some models or protocols can fail to fully appreciate a secular concept and others can compromise Christianity (see Trentham, 2019a, p. 482). Both extremes should be avoided; therefore, my intent is to appreciate Ruether's contribution without compromising evangelical Christianity.…”

“…The protocol for integration is not overly dismissive of social sciences, maintains Christian authenticity, and facilitates appropriation. John David Trentham considers the problem of integration concerning the social sciences and Christian education, and posits “the principle of inverse consistency: Social science models of human development are typically oriented unto counter-biblical ideals, even while they may describe models and means of growth that reflect authentic patterns of personal maturity ” (Trentham, 2019a, p. 475). Trentham recognizes the paradox of conflict and cohesion in the relationship between Christian theology and the social sciences.…”

“…Trentham recognizes the paradox of conflict and cohesion in the relationship between Christian theology and the social sciences. In other words, he recognizes the foundational verity of the Christian worldview, yet still appreciates the insights of the social sciences (Trentham, 2019a, p. 472). The principle of inverse consistency emphasizes a relationship between the Christian worldview and the social sciences that neither compromises Christian authenticity nor ignores the contribution of the social sciences.…”