Philosopher, heal thyself

Pastoral theology has long engaged psychoanalysis as a cognate discipline that helps make sense of human experience. And systematic theologians have always turned to philosophy to help make sense of God.

But there's a growing use of psychoanalytic thought in philosophy, a convergence of the two disciplines that theologians have appropriated most, perhaps, for their own work.

"[I]s there a real connection between the two disciplines," Louise Braddock asks, "or are philosophers with an interest in psychoanalysis just trawling for ideas, critical openings, or catchy titles?"

Writing the The Philosopher's Magazine online, Braddock concludes that psychoanalysis at least gives philosophers a tool with which to figure out the puzzle of human experience.

Reflection at the intersection of these two disciplines might help pastoral theologians clarify questions of (and perhaps develop answers to) epistemology and methodology in their own field of expertise.

.: Posted by Duane Bidwell on Friday, March 05, 2004

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Celebrating the thunder at the heart of the universe, Spondizo explores pastoral theology, spiritual formation, and the vocation of caring for each other and the whole of creation.

The site is written and published by Duane R. Bidwell, Ph.D.

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© 2004-2007 Duane Bidwell. All rights reserved. Photograph courtesy of Charles W. Cushman Photograph Collection, Indiana University Archives (P15776).