ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the backdrop to the following chapters. It points to the diverse dynamics in the relationship between conceptions of God and society, which in turn also calls for empirically based knowledge that can inform theology about its impact and the potential problems that it causes. Changes in the ideas about God are regulated in two ways: by the implications given in the concept as such (philosophically), and by the existing conceptions given in a certain context, tradition, and lifeworld (culturally). Thus, new conceptions of God must be negotiated in light of given culturally conditioned conceptions. The dynamics are also reflected in the differences and tensions between academic theology and everyday religious reflection.
