Process and Difference
Between Cosmological and Poststructuralist Postmodernisms
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Leading scholars explore the relationship between deconstructive theory and process thought.
Description
The similarities and creative tensions between French-based poststructuralism and Whiteheadian process thought are examined here by leading scholars. Although both approaches are labeled "postmodern," their own proponents often take them to be so dissimilar as to be opposed. Contributors to this book, however, argue that processing these differences of theory at a deeper level may cultivate fertile and innovative modes of reflection. Through their comparisons, contrasts, and hybridizations of process and poststructuralist theories, the contributors variously redefine concepts of divinity and cosmos, advance the interaction between science and religion, and engage the sex/gender and religious ethics of otherness and subjectivity.
At Drew University, Catherine Keller is Professor of Constructive Theology and Anne Daniell is a doctoral candidate. Catherine Keller is the author of Apocalypse Now and Then: A Feminist Guide to the End of the World andFrom a Broken Web: Separation, Sexism, and Self.
Reviews
"Keller and Daniell break astonishingly new ground with this volume. North American process theology and philosophy are unlikely to remain the same after this collection. " — Darren J. N. Middleton, author of Novel Theology: Nikos Kazantzakis's Encounter with Whiteheadian Process Theism
"This is a truly pioneering work. Individual authors have explored the theoretical convergence of process and post-structuralist thought, but this volume demonstrates that a number of very competent philosophers and theologians are exploring this field, opening up many avenues for future work. These writers don't deny that differences persist between 'constructive' and 'deconstructive' postmodern trajectories, but by reinterpreting each side of the conversation, they suggest many possible points of agreement and mutually beneficial influence. " — Don H. Compier, author of What is Rhetorical Theology?: Textual Practice and Public Discourse