Can theology be a science? An epistemological reflection

Authors

  • Gabriel Andrade Ajman University (United Arab Emirates).

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7203/metode.12.16612

Keywords:

theology, science, faith, reason, evidence

Abstract

Many dubious disciplines have been removed from academic institutions, but theology is not one of them, as it is still taught in respectable universities. This article argues that theology does not deserve that special treatment. Theology has long pretended to be a science, but it can never be, because ultimately, theology is grounded on faith and authority, two tenets that run counter to the scientific method. Natural theology appeals to evidence and reason, but it also fails in its endeavor. More recent theologians admit that their discipline is not science per se, but still consider it legitimate in its quest for meaning. There are also reasons to doubt this claim, as there is no need to appeal to the supernatural to find meaning.

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Author Biography

Gabriel Andrade, Ajman University (United Arab Emirates).

PhD on Human Sciences. He is Assistant Professor at College of Medicine at Ajman University (United Arab Emirates). His main area of research is Ethics and Psychology in a medical context, as well as the analysis of cultural phenomena from a psychological and philosophical perspective. He is the author La Bilblia ¡vaya timo! (2018), El islam ¡vaya timo! (2016), and La teología ¡vaya timo! (2014), all published by Laetoli. 

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Published

2022-02-02

How to Cite

Andrade, G. (2022). Can theology be a science? An epistemological reflection. Metode Science Studies Journal, (12), 14–21. https://doi.org/10.7203/metode.12.16612
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