Social Identity Complexity Theory as heuristic tool in New Testament studies

Abstract

In this article the author gives an overview of a relatively new theory in social psychology, namely Social Identity Complexity Theory, and illustrates the heuristic value of the theory for New Testament interpretation. Paul’s letter to the Galatians is taken as a case study to illustrate how the theory could shed new light on the Galatian conflict and on Paul’s social identity complexity, which might have made him a good facilitator of change and reconciliation.