ABSTRACT
When it comes to the question of whether theology should stay in public universities, the commitment to the truth of specific religious beliefs seems to be an argument for those who want to get rid of theology. According to this view, a minimal condition for the scientific status of a discipline is neutrality towards its object of research. This requirement seems to be met only by the scientific approach of religious studies. They refrain methodologically from dealing with the truth-question – each religion is equal from this methodological point of view.
This chapter argues against this widespread opinion. The chapter will demonstrate that there is a scientific value in the methodological approach of theology. When theologians assume the truth of specific religious beliefs and reflect upon them, they bring these beliefs into an open discourse. Assuming the truth of religious beliefs and relating them to other beliefs, experiences or common sense intuitions enables theologians to explore hidden aspects or implications of these beliefs. In this way academic theology can account for the quality and rational coherence of religious and common sense beliefs thereby contributing to a healthy university and society.
