What is the Difference Between Theology and Religious Studies?

The video explores the differences between theology and religious studies. It begins with a personal anecdote about the awkwardness of discussing religious studies. Theology is defined as an academic discipline focused on questions raised by religion, often within a specific faith. In contrast, religious studies examine the human aspects of religion, such as rituals and societal impacts, using tools from the humanities and sciences. The video highlights the overlap between the two fields and emphasizes that they ask different questions and use different methods.

What is a common reaction people have when someone mentions they study religion?

• They assume the person is a priest.

• They often change the subject quickly.

• They ask for a religious blessing.

• They become very interested and ask many questions.

How does David Ford define theology?

• As a study of religious rituals and practices.

• As thinking about questions raised by and about religion.

• As a historical analysis of religious texts.

• As a comparison of different religious beliefs.

What is the primary focus of religious studies?

• The philosophical arguments for the existence of God.

• The human dimension, including rituals and societal impacts.

• The divine and transcendent aspects of religion.

• The historical development of religious texts.

Which academic discipline is religious studies most closely related to?

• Anthropology

• Theology

• Philosophy

• Literature

What is a key difference between theology and religious studies?

• Theology focuses on human rituals, while religious studies focus on divine questions.

• Theology asks questions about the divine, while religious studies focus on human processes.

• Theology is more historical, while religious studies are more philosophical.

• Theology is a science, while religious studies are an art.