Theological Reflection and Reflexivity: Theology on the Waves of Social Change

Summary Using Anthony Giddens' understanding of reflexivity, it is suggested that the development of the concept of theological reflection belongs in late modernity. Reflection is related to an understanding of reflexivity which is not solely personal, but also institutional and social. This insight is pursued through an exploration of Graham, Walton and Ward's book Theological Reflection: Methods, where Giddens' reflexivity can be found to relate to the methods explored. This is seen in three key areas: the different scales of social life; the process of bringing into consciousness; and tradition.