This book explores how Paul Tillich's systematic theology, focusing on the concepts of being and reason can benefit nonhuman animals, while also analysing how taking proper account of nonhuman animals can prove immensely beneficial. The author first explains the body of Tillich's system, examining reason and revelation, life and the spirit, and history and the kingdom of God. The second section undertakes a critical analysis of Tillichian concepts and their adequacy in relation to nonhuman animals, addressing topics such as Tillich's concept of 'technical reason' and the multidimensional unity of life. The author concludes by discussing the positive concepts in Tillich's systematic theology with respect to nonhuman animals and creation, including the concept of universal salvation and Tillich's interpretation of nonhuman animals and the Fall in Genesis.
Part I: An Exposition of Paul Tillich Systematic Theology.- 1. Introduction.- 2. Chapter One: The Shape of Tillich's System: A Methodological Introduction.- 3. Chapter Two: Paul Tillich's Systematic Theology.- Part One: Reason and Revelation.- Part Two: Being and God.- Part Three: Existence and the Christ.- Part Four: Life and the Spirit.- Part Five: History and the Kingdom of God.- Part II: A Critical Examination of Key Tillichian Concepts and their Adequacy in Relation to Nonhuman Animals.- 4. Chapter Three: Tillich's Concept of 'Technical Reason'.- 5. Chapter Four: The Creator and Creation in Tillich's Systematic Theology.- 6. Chapter Five: The Implications of Tillich's Christology for Nonhuman Animals and Creation.- 7. Chapter Six: The Multidimensional Unity of Life.- Part III: Positive Concepts in Tillich's Systematic Theology with Respect to Nonhuman Animals and Creation.- 8. Chapter Seven: An Examination of the Method of Correlation in Tillich's Systematic Theology.- 9. Chapter Eight: The Concept of 'Universal Salvation'.- 10. Chapter Nine: Tillich's Interpretation of the Fall and its Relevance to Nonhuman Animals and Creation.- 11. In Summary.- 12. Multidimensional Unity of Life Diagrams.- Bibliography.
Abbey-Anne Smith registered as a qualified veterinary nurse in 1994 and a veterinary anaesthetist in 2004. She gained a doctorate degree in Philosophical Theology, 2014. Her research interests include theology, philosophy and the behaviour and fostering of animals.
"The book offers a comprehensive look at Tillich's theology and how his theological concepts benefit nonhuman animals. ... This book will most appeal to Tillich scholars and those working in theological ethics. ... Recommended. Graduate students, researchers and faculty." (J. L. Best, Choice, Vol. 55 (11), July,2018)
