A Study of Pluralistic Inclusivism as Inter-Religious Theological Methodology

Abstract

This thesis is an examination of pluralistic inclusivism, a theological method that has been developed by Kalarickal Paulose Aleaz. Such an examination is necessitated by the increased attention to a method called New Comparative Theology, developed by Francis X. Clooney, which is receiving critical acclaim in North American and European theological contexts. This dissertation is an analysis of pluralistic inclusivism vis-à-vis new comparative theology with the argument that pluralistic inclusivism is a constructively wider and context sensitive approach to inter-religious dialogue. The analysis is affected with a postcolonial sensitivity and use of political philosophers in the area of pluralism. Along with highlighting the similarities between pluralistic inclusivism and new comparative theology, this research argues that such similarities end when the methodological presuppositions of both are analyzed. In other words, the similarities between pluralistic inclusivism and new comparative theology are ostensible. While Clooney focuses on internal transformation of one’s home tradition, Aleaz offers a theological methodology that is centered on bridging religious differences through the development of a communicative framework. In a context of religious strife and ambiguity, dialogue, or the development of a communicative frame as set forth by pluralistic inclusivism, offers a solution towards achieving the common good. The achievement of the common good, a result of dialogue, is part and parcel of an Anglican theological method.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)