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Theology Is Erudition Without Knowledge
Almost every branch of learning has some relation to the real world and, therefore, some practical value. Theology, however, is just an awareness of a bunch of ridiculous debates about abstract magical beliefs which have no value whatsoever and have no means of being falsified. It is perhaps the most preposterous activity human beings have ever engaged in. It's amazing to think that people once used to be killed over these subtle pseudo-controversies about nothing. Anyone who boasts of their knowledge of theology might as well be wearing a clown suit and a dunce cap.
 Hidell  29 May 2008 20:59
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Religion is simply the primitive desire to explain the world around you without a shred of rationality or evidence. It's sometimes easier to invent an explanation out of whole cloth than it is to actually find out the facts.
 
 Cephus  30 May 2008 00:04
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 so are you saying Theologians study no facts?
by  created
 20 Sep 2008 20:16
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Searching for meaning and concluding a divine derivation, is one of the highest of endeavors man can make. You may disagree with the endeavor, which is okay, but the endeavor itself is of great importance to many. Giving meaning and purpose to life through a connection to a power greater than yourself is what gives value to life.

Often there are dogmatic debates that are a little silly (which is the only reason i am on this side), and in some cases dangerous. But the overall pursuit in making sense of everything and finding great humility in the process is crucial for a great many people. To know that there is someone or something that has greater power than you is important in finding balance and peace for those who are looking for peace in their lives. It can accomplish great things in the character and morality of those who are completely honest with themselves.
 
 innomen  29 May 2008 22:46
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If your talking about intellectualized, dogmatic, legalistic religion.......... I agree
 
 stever  29 May 2008 21:39
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There is much knowledge in theology. Whether it be in areas of philosophy, science, psychology, sociology, etc... Theologians study more than abstract concepts.

I think what you are referring to is the belief in God. And in that area you are incorrect as well. The study of God and the concept of God requires much knowledge because you must understand the creation in order to attempt to understand the Creator.
 
 created  20 Sep 2008 20:15
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Theology is faith seeking understanding--as articulated by Saint Anselm--usually on the part of academics who have some type of belief in God--though perhaps not the one traditionally advocated and sanctioned by church authorities. These are people who also wish to gain a better understanding of church teachings, rather than simply accepting them at face value.

Theology is valuable for a number of reasons, but mostly because theologians can push the envelope and challenge church leaders. Just take a look at Hans Kuhn and you will quickly realize that theologians can serve as highly critical voices within the church, and while their activities are not always appreciated by ecclesiastical authorities, their writings and critiques help point out the shortcomings and fallacies of some beliefs. Theology is also important from a much more secular perspective. Theology departments offer pastoral care programs and graduates often end up working in hospitals with grieving families, or in palliative care units.
 
 mackenzie  30 May 2008 10:23
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It is quite a truth claim to say "there is not such a thing as religious knowledge". The statement is itself about "religious knowledge" and you are claiming to "know" something about it. What is your evidence for your truth claim?
 
 charlee  29 May 2008 22:41
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I agree with everything you said. The problem is this: In centuries of theology, these scholars have acquired mass wealth of knowledge in history in REAL things: Ethnography, history, even real science. Some theologians have therefore made positive contributions.

I WANT to support your argument. But it's written too broadly. Perhaps "The Core Concepts of Theology are Academically Tenuous"?
 
 OzzieMan  29 May 2008 21:24
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Boohoohoo. Go cry me a river. And while your at it, actually STUDY some.
 
 Mark  29 May 2008 21:21
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 That's the problem Mark, we all HAVE studied. It's you and your irrational brethren who haven't got a clue what it is you're supposed to believe, nor any good reason anyone should believe your claims.

The possibility of crying a river is about as likely as the other nonsense in the Bible, I'm not surprised you'd choose to use that statement.
by  Cephus
 30 May 2008 00:03
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