Attempting a dialectical reconciliation of the concept truth in the objectivism of evangelical Christianity and the relativism of postmodernism
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Date
2004
Authors
Foshaugen, E. K.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State
Abstract
English: The Church faces a number of challenges concerning the sociological impact postmodernism
is having on society. One significant area that has been profoundly disputed
is the epistemological content of the concept of truth. Evangelical Christians
believe in Objectivism: the conviction that there exists some ahistorical source,
foundation or framework to which we can appeal to in determining the substance
and nature of truth, knowledge, reality, right or wrong — and it is independent and
external to personal experience or thinking. However, many no longer believe in
absolute truth but in relativism. Relativism is the denial that there exists such an
ahistorical source or foundation that we can appeal to. Truth, knowledge, reality,
right and wrong are all concepts that are relative to a specific conceptual scheme,
framework, or paradigm founded in a society, religion and culture. This article represents
an endeavour to dialogically reunite the two perspectives by arguing for the
seeking of the “truths” in both perspectives. God is Objective Truth and has become
involved in history: in the existential; in the material setting of our relative and
infallible thoughts and the slanted interpretative experiences of the Triune God and
life. The synthesis will be an affirmation that for Christians Truth is discovered and
revealed in fellowship within community. And members of the Body of Christ are
first and finally called to reveal and demonstrate truth to the world — in their
unity.
Description
Keywords
Truth, Objectivism, Postmodernism, Evangelical Christianity
Citation
Foshaugen, E. K. (2004). Attempting a dialectical reconciliation of the concept truth in the objectivism of evangelical Christianity and the relativism of postmodernism. Acta Theologica, 24(2), 180-194.