International Journal of Public Theology

Scope & Guideline

Pioneering Research at the Intersection of Religion and Society

Introduction

Welcome to the International Journal of Public Theology information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of International Journal of Public Theology, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1872-5171
PublisherBRILL
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2013 to 2024
AbbreviationINT J PUBLIC THEOL / Int. J. Public Theol.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPLANTIJNSTRAAT 2, P O BOX 9000, 2300 PA LEIDEN, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The International Journal of Public Theology aims to bridge the gap between theological discourse and public engagement, emphasizing the relevance of faith in addressing contemporary social, political, and ethical issues. Through a diverse range of methodologies, the journal fosters interdisciplinary dialogue and encourages critical reflections on theology's role in the public sphere.
  1. Public Engagement and Social Justice:
    The journal consistently focuses on how theology interacts with pressing social issues, advocating for justice, reconciliation, and inclusivity in various contexts.
  2. Contextual and Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    A significant aim is to explore theological insights in diverse cultural and political contexts, emphasizing how public theology can adapt and respond to local challenges.
  3. Critical Examination of Political Theology:
    The journal addresses the intersections of faith and politics, critiquing ideologies such as nationalism and exploring the implications of faith in democratic societies.
  4. Theological Responses to Global Crises:
    It highlights theological perspectives on global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and social inequality, engaging with issues of ecological and social ethics.
  5. Diversity and Pluralism in Theology:
    The journal promotes discussions around ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity, encouraging a pluralistic approach to public theology.
Recent publications in the International Journal of Public Theology indicate a dynamic evolution in research themes, reflecting contemporary societal challenges and theological responses. The following emerging trends highlight significant areas of focus in the journal's recent issues.
  1. Disability and Inclusion:
    Emerging themes around disability inclusion in public theology indicate a growing awareness of marginalized voices and the need for a theology that embraces diversity and advocates for social justice.
  2. Environmental Theology and Climate Justice:
    A significant uptick in discussions regarding ecological crises and climate justice reflects an urgent call within public theology to address environmental degradation and its ethical implications.
  3. Intersectionality in Theology:
    There is an increasing focus on intersectional approaches that consider how various identities (race, gender, sexuality) interact within theological discourse, promoting a more nuanced understanding of public theology.
  4. Digital and Media Theology:
    The rise of digital spaces and social media has led to an emerging interest in how public theology can engage with contemporary communication platforms and their impact on faith and society.
  5. Postcolonial and Global Perspectives:
    The journal is increasingly exploring postcolonial themes and global perspectives, emphasizing the need for theology that addresses the complexities of identity and power in a globalized world.

Declining or Waning

While the journal has maintained a robust engagement with various themes, certain areas have shown signs of declining prominence in recent years. This may reflect shifts in societal concerns or the evolving landscape of public theology.
  1. Traditional Doctrinal Debates:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in papers focusing solely on traditional doctrinal debates, as the journal shifts towards more practical and contextual applications of theology.
  2. Eurocentric Perspectives:
    Themes centered around Eurocentric theological discussions appear to be waning, with a growing emphasis on global and localized contexts that reflect a broader spectrum of experiences.
  3. Historical Theology:
    While historical perspectives remain important, there is a decline in papers solely dedicated to historical theology, as contemporary issues take precedence in public theological discussions.
  4. Individualistic Approaches to Faith:
    The journal has moved away from individualistic interpretations of faith, focusing instead on communal and social aspects that address collective challenges faced by societies.
  5. Apologetics and Defensiveness:
    There is a diminishing focus on apologetic literature, as the journal emphasizes constructive dialogue and engagement over defensive stances in the face of secularism.

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