What on earth is Theology, Religion and Philosophy of Religion?

Summary

Dr. Hillary Marlowe, a Director of Studies at Girton College, Cambridge, provides an insightful overview of theology, religion, and philosophy of religion. She explores the significance of studying religious traditions, the origins of theology, and how philosophy intersects with these fields. Marlowe highlights key themes, including understanding religious differences, ethical teachings, and the role of sacred texts. She emphasizes the value of studying these subjects at Cambridge to gain a deeper understanding of global challenges, historical context, and to develop critical thinking skills highly valued by employers.

Takeaways

• 📚 Dr. Hillary Marlowe is a Director of Studies at Girton College, Cambridge, and teaches in the Faculty of Divinity.
• 🌍 The course 'Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion' aims to explore how and why religious traditions develop over time.
• 🤔 Theology focuses on understanding God, while philosophy of religion explores questions about existence, truth, and ethics.
• 🗺️ There are many world religions, each with subgroups, denominations, and variations in practice across different cultures.
• 📖 Understanding religious traditions involves examining their founders, core beliefs, scriptures, rituals, and holy places.
• 🌐 Despite their differences, many religions share common values, like the ethical principle of treating others as we wish to be treated.
• 🔎 Studying religion includes examining political, historical, cultural, and psychological influences on religious development.
• 🧠 Theology asks complex questions about God, human nature, suffering, and redemption, informed by scriptures and historical developments.
• 💡 Philosophy of religion, rooted in the love of wisdom, addresses questions like the existence of God, free will, and morality.
• 🎓 Studying theology and philosophy at Cambridge offers valuable skills, like critical thinking, textual analysis, and historical inquiry, beneficial in understanding global challenges and improving communication.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the degree course at the Faculty of Divinity at Cambridge?

The main focus of the degree course at the Faculty of Divinity at Cambridge is the study of theology, religion, and philosophy of religion. It involves understanding religious traditions, exploring theological concepts, and investigating philosophical questions about religion.

How does theology differ from the philosophy of religion?

Theology focuses on the study of God, religious scriptures, and theological questions such as the nature of God and human relationships with the divine. Philosophy of religion, on the other hand, involves the love of wisdom and explores broader questions like the existence of God, morality, free will, and truth.

What is the origin of the word 'theology'?

The word 'theology' comes from two Greek words: 'Theos,' meaning God, and 'Logos,' meaning words or understanding. Theology thus refers to the understanding or study of God.

What are some of the core questions asked in theology?

Core questions in theology include: What is God like? How do God or gods relate to the world and human beings? Can religious belief help fix the world's problems? How should people behave according to divine expectations?

What are some of the different avenues used to study religion?

Different avenues to study religion include examining the founders of religions, their core beliefs, scriptures, religious practices, rituals, festivals, symbols, holy places, and the historical and cultural contexts in which religions evolved.

Why is it important to understand differences between religions?

Understanding differences between religions helps in recognizing how diverse beliefs, practices, and traditions have developed. It allows for a deeper comprehension of religious diversity and promotes cultural and social understanding.

What does the word 'philosophy' mean and how does it relate to religion?

The word 'philosophy' comes from two Greek words: 'Philo,' meaning love, and 'Sophia,' meaning wisdom. Philosophy of religion involves exploring big questions related to religion, such as the existence of God, morality, truth, and the nature of belief.

What is the 'golden rule' shared by many religions?

The 'golden rule' shared by many religions is the ethical principle that one should treat others as they would like to be treated. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, it is phrased as 'love your neighbor as you love yourself.'

What benefits are there to studying theology, religion, and philosophy of religion at Cambridge?

Studying these subjects at Cambridge helps students understand global religious issues, widens their cultural horizons, and develops skills in critical thinking, historical analysis, text evaluation, and communication. These skills are valuable in both academic and professional settings.

How does religious belief influence culture and society?

Religious belief often influences culture and society through traditions, rituals, and social norms. The relationship between religion and culture is strong in many parts of the world, shaping individual and communal identities.