Includes bibliographical references (p. 197-220) and index.
Toward Postcritical Theology -- Theology and Symbolic Communication -- The Problem of Method: From Scholasticism to Models -- Fundamental Theology and the Dynamics of Conversion -- The Uses of Scripture in Theology -- Tradition as a Theological Source -- The Magisterium and Theological Dissent -- Theology and Philosophy -- Theology and the Physical Sciences -- University in Service to the Church -- The Teaching Mission of the Church and Academic Freedom -- Method in Ecumenical Theology
Avery Dulles's theological career has spanned one of the most creative and confusing periods in history of the church. With the goal of integrating new information from philosophy and sciences into deeper understanding of the world and society, the many theological schools pursued independent agendas, with the net effect of a loss of coherence. It is Fr. Dulles's contention that theological schools have drifted so far apart that what seems false and dangerous to one school seems almost self-evident to another. Theologians lack a common language, common goals, and common norms. Exploring the possibilities for greater consensus, The Craft of Theology illustrates how a "post-critical" Theology can draw on the riches of Scripture and tradition as it reflects on the faith of the church in new contexts. Fr. DUlles discusses the freedom of theology within the university and sets forth principals for fresh dialogue with philosophy, the sciences, and other Christians churches.q