Theories of Doctrinal Development in the Catholic Church

Bringing a longue durée perspective to the issue, this book traces different theories of doctrinal development from antiquity to the present day.

Michael Seewald (Author), David West (Translated by)

9781009272001, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 23 March 2023

222 pages
23.5 x 15.4 x 1.7 cm, 0.47 kg

'A notable contribution to the field … a distinctive contribution that raises important theological questions for those captivated by subjects like dogma, development of doctrine, and continuity. It will be of value to seasoned scholars and graduate students alike.' Christopher Cimorelli, Newman Studies Journal

The contemporary Catholic Church finds itself in deep crisis as it questions which elements are essential to the Catholic faith, and which can be changed. Bringing a longue durée perspective to this issue, Michael Seewald historicizes the problem and investigates how theologians of the past addressed it in light of the challenges that they faced in their time. He explores the intense intellectual efforts made by theologians to explain how new components were added to Christian doctrine over time, and that dogma has always been subject to change. Acknowledging the historic cleavage between 'conservatives' who refer to tradition, and reformers, who formulate their arguments to address contemporary needs, Seewald shows that Catholic thought is intellectually expansive, enabling the Church to be transformed in order to meet the challenges of the present day. His book demonstrates how theology has dealt with the realization that there is a simultaneity of continuity and discontinuity in doctrinal matters.

1. Defining dogma and development
2. The Bible: both product and yardstick of doctrinal development
3. How the early Church reflected on doctrinal continuity and change
4. Discussions in the Middle Ages on changes to the unchanging faith
Theories of doctrinal development in the nineteenth and early twentieth century
6. The twentieth century: from anti-modernism to the Second Vatican Council
7. Overview and outlook.

Subject Areas: Christian theology [HRCM], Roman Catholicism, Roman Catholic Church [HRCC7], Philosophy of religion [HRAB]