THE SOCIAL SCIENCES AS AN ALLY TO THEOLOGY: A RE-READING OF ANTHONY AKINWALE’S SUBIECTUM THEOLOGIAE

Abstract

A keen inquiry into the nature, scope, meaning, branches and task of theology leads us to the awareness that theology alone does not provide all we can know about human beings. To understand the human person in her wholeness, the social sciences play a significant role and ought to be specially considered. This initial statement acknowledges an interrelationship and integration of theology and the social sciences. When well worked out, the interconnectedness between theology and the social sciences benefits both disciplines. Oftentimes this interlocking between theology and the social sciences is neglected, misunderstood, misinterpreted and misrepresented, thereby impoverishing both theology and the social sciences. This problem forms the subject of Anthony Akinwale’s magisterial lecture as a Master of Sacred Theology in the Dominican Order delivered in the Dominican University, titled Subiectum Theologiae. He addresses the gap between theology and the social sciences. This article, expository, analytic and evaluative in method, considers theology and its allies and how they complement one another, thereby showing the inner unity between scientia and sapientia. It suggests that theological principles illuminate the social sciences and that theology also broadens its horizon from the findings of the social sciences.