The Weight of Objectivity

This volume argues that the social sciences are a vital resource for theological reflection. It challenges John Milbank's rejection of social theory on the basis that it is corrosive of theology. The book demonstrates that enthusiasm for rescuing theology from the Enlightenment's critique of religion can become problematic. This is evident in authors like Milbank, but also Luce Irigaray and Helen Cixous, when they construct idealist withdrawals from social reality, rather than more refined understandings of social and religious experience. In the course of this analysis, the critical social theory of Theodor W. Adorno is a frequent dialogue partner. The discussion demonstrates that Adorno's thought provides a helpful resource for bringing theological reflection and social theory into fruitful conversation.