Pol'skov K.O. Theological Method VS Method in Theology

Abstract: The subject of the present research article is the structure and performance features of the scientific theological method. Modern discussions often involve diametrically opposite views on whether it is possible to speak of a specific method for obtaining new knowledge in terms of theology or we should better deal with the problem of applying scientific methods to theological reserches. In his article Polskov demonstrates that this situation is mostly created by the fact that participants of discussions usually have a different understanding of the term 'method'. The author of the present article keeps to the broad definition of method as the mean to achieve a result. The author shows that such an approach consistutes the specific features of the theological method. In his research Polskov analyzes the structure of the theological method. He demonstrates that a scientist who applies the theological method performs the three interdependent procedures proceeding from the semantic structure analysis of a phenomenon under research to the exegesis of this phenomenon. To describe the procedure that is applied by a theologist at the third stage of his research, the author of the article introduces the term 'theological correlation'. By performing 'theological correlation', a theologist conforms results obtained at previous stages of his research to soteriological ideals that are set forth by the Church authority and fixed in the Holy Tradition. The main research method used by the author in his research is the philosophical analysis of the process of theological research combined with the axiological approach to viewing a theological research as the research with the eschatological orientation and existential meaning for human. The scientific novelty of the research is caused by the fact that the author describes a special nature of dialogueness of the theological method as well as views the theological method not only as the method studying the 'inside' of a theological research but also the method that studies the 'outside' of a theological research including all kinds of cultural phenomena and processes. In conclusion, the author provides a number of practical examples of the research model offered in this article. 

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