Social constructionism and theology

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Scholars of practical theology are increasingly regarding the discipline as one whose scope extends beyond the bounds of an applied theology. The concept of action, or practice, plays a central role in this new understanding. At the base of theological reflections by scholars of practical theology are the practices, and these are analyzed empirically. The aim of the discipline is to transform these practices and develop a hermeneutical action theory or a hermeneutical-empirical approach to human actions. As a result of its focus on practices, practical theology is closely linked to the social sciences. Within the social sciences, social constructionism is a growing theory. Although its forms vary, this theory is one to which not only social scientists, but also researchers in the psychology and sociology of religion, adhere. This volume demonstrates the importance of reflection on the emerging concept of social constructionism in the social sciences by scholars of practical theology.