Religieuse identiteitskonstruksie by Christelike teologie studente in Suid-Afrikaanse openbare hoër onderwys : 'n prakties-teologiese studie

Abstract

Identity construction is a lifelong part of human development and functioning. The multiplicity of spaces in which people find themselves and their lived experiences in those spaces influence identity construction and shed light on the complex, multiple and systematic nature of identity. From a theological perspective, the question of identity is linked to anthropology, among other things. Theological anthropology asks why, who and how people are in relation to God and in what way the human-God relation influences their relationship with themselves, fellow human beings, the broad cosmos and everyday life. Ernst Conradie (2005) connects theology to identity construction and argues that Christian theology is an ongoing discussion of Christian identity. The assumption is that students in theology at South African public higher education institutions are directly and indirectly exposed to this ongoing discussion about Christian identity in a context of plurality. The expectation is that students at South African public higher education institutions should be equipped with the help of theoretical frameworks and critical discussion to position and navigate themselves in a contemporary context of plurality and diversity. This study focuses on Christian theology students with specific reference to their religious identity construction and how practical theology as informed by David Kelsey's theological anthropology can provide perspectives on theology students' Christian identity construction in public higher education environments. David Kelsey's theological anthropology, and in particular his theocentric understanding of human dignity, is particularly used in this study as a theological resource.