Journal for Christian Theological Research
Article Title
Have We Need of Invoking Postmodernity? Identity and Difference in Theological Discourse
Abstract
While the term "postmodernity" remains vague or equivocal, theologians increasingly concede that it is one which they can not avoid trying to understand and deal with. One definition of the term proceeds by way of sharp contrast with specific features of modernity, thus clearly distinguishing postmodernity from even late modernity. The key to this distinction seems to be a particular conception of "difference" which is worked out rigorously in Heidegger's, "The Principle of Identity." Proceeding from Heidegger's claim to think difference anterior to identity, postmodernity is then presented here as the source of considerable difficulty to a theology which would seem committed to basic identification with Christ. Clarification of these difficulties and the dangers they harbor for a theology which would speak according to the postmodern condition illumines the general contours of a theology which instead speaks about it or in discussion with it. Some implications in the fields of pastoral and speculative theology are highlighted.
Recommended Citation
Bloechl, Jeffrey
(1999)
"Have We Need of Invoking Postmodernity? Identity and Difference in Theological Discourse,"
Journal for Christian Theological Research: Vol. 4
, Article 1.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.luthersem.edu/jctr/vol4/iss1999/1