Philosophical and theological influences and more......

When I was studying for a law degree the subject I enjoyed most was jurisprudence & legal theory.  Most universities simply named it 'jurisprudence' but my alma mater chose to adopt a rather grander title!  Dipping into the schools of jurisprudence engaged me in a study of the ideas of numerous philosophers and provided me with an understanding of the symbiotic relationship of ethics, legal theory, political philosophy, theology, sociology and economics. It taught me also to view propositions with cynicism, a trait I have retained for the past sixty years, but above all it enlightened me as to how the processes for moving from theory to action work. 

I took a particular interest in the ideas of Karl Popper, John Kenneth Galbraith, John Robinson, Martin Luther King Jnr. and Jacques Derrida.  Later I would be influenced by the works of Don Cupitt, Richard Holloway, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Richard Rohr, Jurgen Moltmann and Gustavo Gutierrez.  An eclectic mix of ideas.  

There are many other writers who also have been influential. I describe my theological position as being a melange of the ideas of others: there is nothing original in my thinking.  Currently I lean towards humanism and away from theism, pantheism and panentheism.  

What has been a constant opinion of mine for many years is that we must provide help and support to those in need and be totally inclusive in so doing.  Also, we must challenge systemic injustice  through campaigns for social justice.

Looking back it is clear to me how my exposure to so many ideas, and the sifting process I have undertaken, has led me to my current theological and political outlook.   Politically I describe myself as a democratic socialist.  

In the end all the theory and philosophy is meaningless.  What matters are not concepts but how you engage in practical action to help others, to show love and kindness and concern for people,  indeed for the whole of creation.  Dear reader, the challenge we should set ourselves is to engage in practical action to the best of our resources and ability.