Abstract
Issues of the nature and task of theology remain important to the science‐theology dialogue. This paper lays out a framework for understanding the nature of theology in relation to the other sciences. In particular, I argue that the primary question remains one of autonomy and reduction. If theology is a genuine academic discipline, then it should be an autonomous field with its own subject matter and norms. Wolfhart Pannenberg argues that theology is the science of God, but I suggest that theology be more broadly understood as the science of meaning. If we recognize this, the modes of interaction between theology and the other sciences becomes clearer.
Keywords
reductionism, science‐theology conflict, theological method, scientific theology, science‐theology typologies
How to Cite
Peterson, G., (2001) “Theology: Reduction or Autonomy?”, Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science 36(4), 597–614. doi: https://doi.org/10.1111/0591-2385.00387