Theology and Social Psychology: Pluralism and “Evangel” in the Thought of Peter Berger and John Howard Yoder

Abstract

Recent interest in the relationship between sociology and theology has generated significant discussion about the problem of belief in late modernity. Social psychology in particular has highlighted the challenges of the psychological pressure of pluralism on religion, and its reflexive expression, theology. What kinds of challenges does this pose for theology? How should theology proceed in light of this situation? These issues are discussed here in light of the positions of two leading scholars, one a sociologist of religion with an interest in theology, Peter L. Berger, the other a theologian (ethicist) with a sociological sensibility, John Howard Yoder. Both address the social psychological problem of pluralism, and both offer a theological strategy to manage the psychic pressure individuals face in contemporary society. Their approaches, however, are substantially different. Using Berger’s three strategies (inductive, deductive, and reductive) for managing the psychic pressure of affirming faith in pluralistic late modernity as a background, I argue that John Howard Yoder offers an alternative strategy to pluralism that avoids the weaknesses of all three of Berger’s options. In addition, I critique Berger’s view of the gospel and ecclesiology and argue that Yoder offers a more plausible view of both in light of the pressures of late modern pluralism.