The Making of American Liberal Theology: Imagining Progressive Religion, 1805 - 1900

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 528 pages
• Published by: Westminster John Knox Press
• Edition: 1st Edition October 1, 2001
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 0664223540
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0664223540
• Book Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.1 inches
• Weighs: 1.5 pounds

From Library Journal
As the first entry in a projected three-volume series on American liberal Christianity, this masterfully written work offers a biographical narrative of the 19th-century figures who, while influenced by English and German ideas, shaped an indigenous theology. Writers such as William E. Channing, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Horace Bushnell, Henry Ward Beecher, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Charles Briggs, and Borden Parker Bowne are all featured here. These thinkers developed modernist schools that sought to find a middle ground between orthodoxy and rationalism, claims Dorrien (The Barthian Revolt in Modern Theology). A significant feature is the author's coverage of the divinity schools at Harvard, Boston, Yale, and Chicago universities; surprisingly, he finds the most consistent theological liberalism at Boston University. He also describes the controversies these liberals engendered in the churches and the resulting heresy trials. Highly recommended for public and academic libraries.AJames A. Overbeck, Atlanta-Fulton P.L., GA
Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Reader Reviews
Dorrien's book provides a well-written and informed look at the roots of American liberal theology. Dorrien starts with the Unitarians (most notably Ralph Waldo Emerson -- did you remember he was a minister from high school?) and considers other forerunners such as Harriet Beecher Stowe's brother and Elizabeth Cody Stanton. I am a firm believer in complicated information presented in an easily read fashion, and Dorrien's book fits the bill. I've actually been reading a history of Atonement Theory and Trinitarianism for light bedtime reading because it's so fascinating. Dorrien explores theology through biography, painting a realistic picture of the all-too-human proponents of the theory of the Divine. I also appreciate learning about the historical roots of an informed, loving, intelligent Christian faith that sought to fight against the fire-and-brimstone intolerant exclusivism of its day. A must read for Bible and religion students, seminarians, historians, and anyone who wishes to claim the historical roots of progressive Christianity.