Public Theology and Music

Author: Gill, Robin

Source: International Journal of Public Theology, Volume 4, Number 4, 2010 , pp. 410-425(16)

Publisher: BRILL

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Abstract:

This article argues that music may be an effective but under-explored metaphor for public theology. Specifically music can act as a helpful metaphor for theologians seeking to respond to three dominant criticisms of public theology, namely: that theology is too particularistic to be relevant to public discourse; that theology (and religion more widely) is harmful and dangerous especially after 9/11; that theology offers nothing that is objective to public discourse. The article responds to these criticisms by pointing out that they can be applied to public music too, but that the world would be impoverished if music (and theology) were simply to be eliminated.

Keywords: public theology; music; particularism; maleficence; objectivity

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156973210X526391

Affiliations: 1: University of Kent UK

Publication date: 2010-01-01