Metaphysics and the Future of Theology

"Ambitious in its scope, clear in its argument, and charitable in its engagement with interlocutors, Meyer's book offers a fresh interpretation of the current crisis in theology and public life. In a context where theologians and philosophers alike have lost their metaphysical nerve, Meyer's argues that coherent public discourse requires cogent and courageous argument concerning the ultimate character of existence. In this, he practices what he preaches."

--Timothy A Beach-Verhey, Davidson College



"Religious thought in the twentieth century was hamstrung by the assumption that one could not speak of reality as such. But as the narrow empiricism of that century slips off, metaphysics returns. Arguing systematically, carefully, and with rigor, Meyer points the way to an unapologetically metaphysical theology. How gratifying to see a theologian make the case that to give final priority to public reason and experience rather than authority and tradition is a virtue in religion and not a vice."

--Kevin Schilbrack, Western Carolina University



"Meyer's sustained argument contributes to the conversation in the best possible way--by understanding and appreciating a diversity of important recent proposals in their own terms even while giving order to these alternatives through a continuing critical discussion. Thereby, we are led to see the significance of metaphysics for a Christian ethic that is convincing to the contemporary human community.

--Franklin I. Gamwell, University of Chicago



"William Meyer takes God and theological argument seriously. In this book he does three things: he analyzes why theology has lost its voice in modern culture; he offers a typological analysis of six contemporary theological approaches; and he argues that a process metaphysical theology provides the best framework for theology to regain its public voice in modern society. I strongly recommend this book for anyone interested in how theology might speak publicly in the contemporary world."

--Lois Malcolm, Luther Seminary



"Must we, in order to be fully rational, defend our most basic convictions by reference to universal reason and common human experience? Can theology gain a hearing in contemporary culture only if it can redeem its metaphysical claims? Does process thought offer our best hope for articulating a public voice for theology? In Metaphysics and the Future of Theology, Bill Meyer responds to these questions with a resounding yes. His positive case for process metaphysics is developed by way of a powerful and illuminating typology and critique of current approaches within theological ethics. Even readers not wholly convinced by Meyer's account of what rationality requires of religious believers will be challenged to articulate their own presuppositions and commitments more carefully, and will learn a great deal from Meyer's clear-sighted and unfailingly charitable analysis of the state of contemporary public theology."

--Jennifer A. Herdt, University of Notre Dame