University of Glasgow

Alumnus, Theology and Religious Studies

Other Affiliations: University of Denver, Religious Studies
University of New Orleans, Philosophy

Thesis Title: Multiple Concepts of the Church: Hermeneutics, Identity, and Christian Community

About

My thesis constructs an approach to ecumenical unity by reading the development of theological orthodoxy in terms of identity formation. The philosophical approach to identity is placed in the post-Kantian traditions of which both Gilles Deleuze and Paul Ricoeur stand. In my analysis, I propose that ecumenical unity is not found in organisational coherence or absorption but in recognising that there is unity within a body precisely because there are difference parts which are joined together without becoming homogeneous.

My current research project is analysing the social relevance of theology, particularly in light of various political initiatives such as the 'Big Society' in the UK and 'Faith-Based Initiatives' in the USA. I hope to approach this issue through one aspect of the hermeneutical framework I began constructing in my thesis, as well as through correlational and emancipation theologies.