Critical theology: why Hegel now?

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article is an argument for furthering the understanding, role and scope of critical theology in reflection on the act, content and implications of theological thought through appropriation of Hegel’s presuppositionless approach. I examine the scope and potential of such a reflective approach in theology’s engagement with critical theory to date, proposing a venture beyond utilisation of its resources for contemporary expression of theological themes or in demonstration of theology’s socio-political potential. After demonstrating that such an approach is in keeping with theology’s critical character, I attempt to provide some outlines of such a critical theology, how it is to carry out its reflection and what insights it can yield into the method and content of theological thought.