Vital force as a triangulated concept of nature and s(S)pirit

This article explores and seeks to appropriate theologically the African notion of vital force as a relational, non-reductionist ecological concept that would enrich the Christian doctrine of pneumatheology. The understanding that relational and pneumatological categories are viable within the theology–science dialogue is the broader framework within which this article is conceived. The relationship between natural theology and revelation provides an epistemological standpoint that does not divorce Spirit and reality

The 'causes' of teenage pregnancy: review of South African research - Part 2

This article forms the second of a two-part series in which South African research on teenage pregnancy is reviewed. Part 1 of the series dealt with the consequences of teenage pregnancy; this paper reviews the 'causes' thereof. International literature is incorporated in the discussion by way of comparison. Contributory factors which have been investigated by South African researchers include: reproductive ignorance; the earlier occurrence of menarche; risktaking behaviour; psychological problems; peer influence; co-ercive sexual relations; dysfunctional family patterns; poor health services; socio-economic status; the breakdown of cultural traditions; and the cultural value placed on children. Preston-Whyte and colleagues present a revisionist argument, stating that early pregnancy may represent a rational life choice for certain adolescent women. The article is concluded with comments on methodological problems encountered in the South African research, and a discussion on the implications in terms of policy formulation

Historical Theology at public universities matter

South African universities are in the process of serious transformation and restructuring. The place of faculties of theology at universities has come under the spotlight resulting in the closure of several theological faculties or in the moving of theology to other faculties, mainly humanities or arts. Theology is under pressure and in the current academic environment, Church History, in its traditional form, has all but disappeared from South African universities.  This article is an attempt to address the current situation. Whilst this article looks at the issue of theology at public universities, its main focus is to explore the future study of church history in the context of universities and, in particular, a Faculty of Theology. Understanding church history in the broad framework as Historical Theology, this article asserts the significance of church history at public universities, but points out the need to restructure the Department giving due consideration to community engagement, internationalisation, transformation, africanisation and interreligious collaboration. All of these would have a serious impact on teaching, learning and research

Knowledge, values, and beliefs in the South African context since 1948: An overview

In this contribution, an overview of the distinct waysin which the interplay between knowledge, values, and beliefs tookshape in the South African context since 1948 is offered. This is framedagainst the background of the paleontological significance of SouthAfrica and an appreciation of indigenous knowledge systems, but alsoof the ideological distortion of knowledge and education during theapartheid era through the legacy of neo-Calvinism. The overviewincludes references to discourse on human rationality (as an implicitcritique against ideology), on the use of social sciences in theologicalreflection, on the teaching of evolution in public schools, on scienceand religion, and on religion and ecology. The essay concludes witha survey of some of the major voices regarding the interface betweenreligion and science in South Africa

Drums for pump organs

No Abstrac

Studies in organosulphur-nitrogen and organoselenium-nitrogen chemistry

Imperial Users onl