Religious Radicalism and Christianity in a Multireligious and Secular Culture: a Perspective from the Theology of Religions

Abstract

This review examines the theological inquiry into religious radicalism within the pluralistic and secular landscape of the contemporary era, as undertaken in the monograph by Swiss scholar R. Bernhard, “Theology of Religion as Critique of Religion” (2023). It first explores the roots of religious fundamentalism, attempting to trace its genesis and aetiology through a wide array of religious studies methodologies and to articulate the core motives that account for its nature and emergence. In this context, the issue of religious tolerance is addressed: the author outlines its historical background and proposes a contemporary ra­tionale grounded in the Protestant tradition. Simultaneously, the position of Christianity in the post‑Christocentric age is considered, along with associated challenges – namely, the relativisation of fundamental doctrinal tenets and practices and the culpabilisation of the Christian ethos. Primary attention is devoted to the following thematic loci: claims to absoluteness, eschatological discourse and its contemporary projections, and “abusive” biblical narratives. The proposed strategies for addressing these issues are chiefly oriented toward hermeneutical approaches that, according to the author, should align with the spirit of Christian tradition and fundamental human values. Particular emphasis is also placed on the exploration of “unconscious” modes of participation in Christianity – a topic of heightened relevance in an age marked by a wide spectrum of alternative worldviews and spiritual practices.