Process Theology
Introduction
Process Theology is a type of theology, a branch of philosophy of religion, that has evolved from the metaphysical process philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead (1861–1947) and further developed by his students at the University of Chicago, Charles Hartshorne (1897–2000) and John B. Cobb Jr. (b. 1925). This theological perspective is often referred to as process thought or Whiteheadian thought.
Overview
Process theology asserts that God and the universe are in a constant state of becoming and changing, rather than being fixed and immutable. It emphasizes the relational nature of God and the world, positing that both are interconnected and interdependent. This perspective contrasts with classical theism, which views God as unchanging and independent from the world.
Key Concepts
God
In process theology, God is not seen as an omnipotent, unchanging being, but rather as a di-polar deity who is both transcendent and immanent. God's transcendence is expressed in the primordial nature, which encompasses the divine vision, values, and aims. God's immanence, on the other hand, is expressed in the consequent nature, which is responsive and receptive to the world.
Process
The term "process" in process theology refers to the belief that reality is dynamic and evolving, rather than static and fixed. It asserts that everything, including God, is in a state of constant change and becoming. This concept is rooted in Whitehead's process philosophy, which posits that reality is composed of events or "actual occasions" rather than static substances.
Relationality
Process theology emphasizes the relational nature of existence. It posits that all entities are interconnected and interdependent, and that their identities are shaped by their relationships with others. This relationality extends to God, who is seen as being in a constant relationship with the world.
Creativity
Creativity is a key concept in process theology. It is seen as the ultimate principle of reality, the source of all novelty and change. Creativity is not a property of any one entity, but rather a characteristic of all entities. It is through creativity that new possibilities are actualized and reality evolves.
Historical Development
Process theology has its roots in the process philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead. Whitehead's metaphysical system, outlined in his work "Process and Reality," provided the philosophical foundation for process theology. His ideas were further developed by his students at the University of Chicago, Charles Hartshorne and John B. Cobb Jr., who applied them to the field of theology.
In the 1960s and 1970s, process theology gained popularity in liberal Protestant circles, particularly among theologians seeking to reconcile science and religion. It has also influenced other areas of theology, including feminist theology, ecological theology, and liberation theology.
Criticisms and Responses
Process theology has been criticized on several fronts. Some critics argue that it undermines the traditional understanding of God's omnipotence and immutability. Others contend that it is too speculative and lacks biblical support.
Process theologians have responded to these criticisms by arguing that their perspective offers a more coherent and plausible account of God and the world. They contend that it is more consistent with contemporary science and more responsive to the problem of evil.