The theory–practice distinction and the complexity of practical knowledge

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Authors

Miller-McLemore, B.J. (Bonnie)

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

OpenJournals Publishing

Abstract

Over the past few decades, theologians have recognised the value of practice but have been optimistic about the ease with which practice is incorporated into theology. People use all sorts of adjectives to characterise the complex relationship – ‘integrally related’, a ‘deeper reciprocity’, ‘bound up in thickly intertwined ways’ – but connecting the two is not as easy as these words suggest. This article returns to the age-old question about the relationship between theory and practice. But it studies this question from the angle of practice. Although many scholars have analysed the distinction between theory and practice as it functions conceptually, few have examined challenges in relating the two as they emerge in practice. The article argues that there is an inevitable distinction between theory and practice that receives considerably less attention and needs more understanding and even respect. It also argues that the discipline of practical theology adds a distinctive angle on this discussion because it considers how the concepts function practically.

Description

Prof. Dr Miller-McLemore is participating in the research project ‘Gender Studies and Practical Theology Theory Formation’, directed by Prof. Dr Yolanda Dreyer, Department of Practical Theology, Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria.

Keywords

Practical theology, Practical knowledge, Theory and practice, Theory-practice distinction, Practical skills, Education, Learning, Skill development, Applied knowledge, Bridging the gap

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Miller-McLemore, B., 2016, ‘The theory–practice distinction and the complexity of practical knowledge’, HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies 72(4), a3381. http://dx.DOI. org/ 10.4102/hts.v72i4.3381.