The quote suggests that contemporary Western intellectuals generally view theology and Scholasticism as outdated ways of thinking within religious contexts. According to this perspective, these disciplines are often perceived as embracing irrational beliefs and rigid doctrines that no longer align with modern intellectual standards.
This statement delves into the broader cultural shift in attitudes towards traditional forms of theological inquiry. It highlights a significant divide between contemporary academic discourse and historical religious thought systems like theology and Scholasticism. The perception is that these fields are seen as outmoded because they do not fit within the current framework of rational and scientific analysis prevalent in today’s intellectual community. This shift reflects broader societal changes where reason, empirical evidence, and secularism have increasingly taken precedence over traditional religious interpretations.
Rodney Stark, the author of this quote, is a sociologist known for his work on religion and social behavior. He has written extensively about the relationship between religion and society from historical and contemporary perspectives, often challenging conventional views held by other academics in the field.
