Progress in Theology: Does the Queen of the Sciences Advance?

This book explores the intriguing relationship between theology, science, and the ideal of progress from a variety of perspectives. While seriously discussing the obstacles and pitfalls related to the notion of progress in theology, it argues that there are in fact many different kinds of progress in theology. It considers how this sheds positive light on what theologians do and suggests that other disciplines in the humanities can equally profit from these ideas. The chapters provide tools for making further progress in theology, featuring detailed case studies to show how progress in theology works in practice and connecting with the role and place of theology in the University. The book rearticulates in multiple ways theology’s distinctive voice at the interface of science and religion.

Gijsbert van den Brink is Full Professor of Theology and Science in the Faculty of Religion and Theology at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Rik Peels is an Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religion & Theology at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Bethany Sollereder is a Lecturer in Science and Religion at the University of Edinburgh, UK.