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Linzey’s Animal Theology and Critical Dialogue: Focusing on Moltmann, Mouw, and Stackhouse

  • The Korean Journal of Chiristian Social Ethics
  • Abbr : 기사윤
  • 2023, (55), pp.37-75
  • Publisher : The Society Of Korean Christian Social Ethics
  • Research Area : Humanities > Christian Theology
  • Received : March 15, 2023
  • Accepted : March 29, 2023
  • Published : April 30, 2023

Lee, Chang-Ho 1

1장로회신학대학교

Accredited

ABSTRACT

The ecological perspective is fundamentally critical of anthropocentrism. It is a refusal to view other beings in the living world as objects of human control or resources for human ends. Instead, it emphasizes the idea that all beings of an ecosystem are necessary and equally valuable. Humans are one of many animals, not more important or relatively superior. There are various species of animals, and the relationship between all species is not a hierarchy but a horizontal one. Even empirically, animals are companions to humans in our society. They should not be treated as a means to satisfy human needs but as equal objects of love, such as family members, friends, and companions. Considering this reality, Christian theology should reflect on animals’ ontological value or relational meaning and provide a rationale for justification. A typical example of such theological work is Andrew Linzey’s animal theology. Linzey emphasizes that animals are the result of the same God who created humans. So they should be treated as creatures equal to humans and partners who should build a living community of harmony and coexistence with humans. This paper aims to contribute to deepening the discourse of animal theology and ethics. To this end, I would like to state Linzey’s animal theology and ethics and develop a critical dialogue with three theologians. Jürgen Moltmann, Richard J. Mouw, and Max L. Stackhouse are involved in the conversation with Linzey. I would like to conclude this paper by making some suggestions that can contribute to the maturation of the discourse of animal theology and ethics.

Citation status

* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.