A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

  • Johann Kinghorn Stellenbosch University

Abstract

The sociology of religion is not an unknown academic enterprise in South and Southern Africa. But is is equally true that it is not widely practised.For at least two reasons this is quite surprising. Firstly, around the globe a new alliance between theology and the social sciences, sometimes even replacing the traditional philosophical mode, seems to have emerged over the past three decades. As a consequence the sociology of religion, among others, has been revitalised.Secondly, it has become conventional to say that religion plays a formidable social role in South African society. However, giving substance to this statement proves to be a problem, thereby indicating the paucity of sound empirical evidence and related proper theory.The purpose of this edition of Scriptura is to raise an awareness in this regard. It is not claimed that the sociology of religion will solve theology’s chronic relevancy problem. But I am convinced that a proper input from the sociology of religion is indispensable.
Published
2020-11-28
Section
Editorial