Theology

[Atheist]

Is there any sense in which theology could be considered a science? I mean, I know it uses the suffix 'ology' but is that a valid claim for it to be considered a branch of knowledge, any more than astrology, scientology etc, or is it simply an attempt to use 'ology' to give it respectability? There is christian theology, muslim theology, Jewish theology, but the real sciences don't attach themselves to religion.

[woofgang]

"I suppose I'm just launching an attack on theology."

so that's not an attack on religion?

"I still don't think they should get away with breaking the laws that the rest of us live by."

What laws are they breaking?

[Peter Pedant]

no for chrissakes
it is all about divine revelation

not divine calling you up on your MP3

[Old_Geezer]

Come on, it's not just any old ology; it's the ology !

[Atheist]

Can anyone here explain how christian theology and muslim or Jewish theology can belong in the same bag? I mean, christian maths v Jewish maths? It doesn't make sense.

[Atheist]

Am I alone? A voice in the wilderness? Oh, father, why hast thou forsaken me?

[Atheist]

Mum! Dad's not listening!

[rowanwitch]

If you like you can study comparative theology, which tends to be more objective rather than the courses assigned to different faiths which may be designed to prepare the student for ministry or religious leadership.

As for things like fortune telling I have dabbled a bit but have had more luck with random predictions. (Don't tell my regulars).

[Atheist]

Thanks, Rowan. But comparative theology sounds a bit like comparative fairytales. Why make a study out of different myths? apart from seeking insight into human gullibility, or human imaginative powers? Well, it's something to do I suppose. I'm deeply suspicious of unfounded beliefs - when the believers take against you, you can't reason with them and so if they decide you should be sacrificed that's that; if they decide you should be laughed at, that's that. There's a difference between arguing with Goering and Russell; one will eventually pull a gun and the other will say "so it appears we must agree to have different views on the nature of being and meaning and reasonable human conduct."

[tomus42]

I don't think theology has ever been considered a science. It's a subject of study. That's all the 'ology' means.

[Theland]

The money preachers use psychology and scripture to make unsuspecting congregations part with their nard earned cash.
Done very scientifically and very successfully alas.

[rowanwitch]

Comparative theology looks far more into the reasons why religion developed as it did in different cultures, the human need for faith, and how structures within religion affect human behaviour both individually and as society. It's a fascinating subject and I wish I could afford to do the degree course. It really suits the open minded and the atheist better than someone who is committed to a faith.

[woofgang]

tomus42 "I don't think theology has ever been considered a science. It's a subject of study. That's all the 'ology' means."

Tomus we keep saying it and the OP ain't listening.

[Atheist]

Thanks for all your comments and views.
Most interesting.

[jim360]

No.