process theology: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2academic, theological
Quick answer
What does “process theology” mean?
A theological movement emphasizing that God is not static but is in a dynamic, relational process of becoming, influenced by events in the world, and is not omnipotent in the classical sense.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A theological movement emphasizing that God is not static but is in a dynamic, relational process of becoming, influenced by events in the world, and is not omnipotent in the classical sense.
A school of philosophical theology, primarily developed from the metaphysics of Alfred North Whitehead and Charles Hartshorne, which interprets God as dipolar (having both primordial and consequent natures), intimately involved in and affected by the world's becoming. It is often contrasted with classical theism.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is identically used and spelled in both varieties. The conceptual tradition is equally studied in British and American universities, though its development was more prominent in American academia.
Connotations
No significant difference in connotation. It is recognized as a niche, specialized field within theological studies globally.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Its frequency is confined to specific academic seminars, journals, and books in philosophical theology. It is equally rare in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “process theology” in a Sentence
[process theology] + [verb: argues/posits/emphasizes] + [that-clause][Adherents/Proponents] + [of process theology] + [verb: claim/reject]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “process theology” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He processes theological concepts in a Whiteheadian framework.
American English
- She is processing these ideas through a lens of process theology.
adverb
British English
- He argued process-theologically for a changing God.
American English
- She interprets scripture process-theologically.
adjective
British English
- The process-theological perspective offers a distinct view.
American English
- His process-theological approach differs from classical models.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Primary context. Used in theology, philosophy, and religious studies departments. E.g., 'Her dissertation explores the problem of evil in process theology.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Specific to philosophical theology and metaphysics. Used with precise reference to Whitehead, Hartshorne, and their interpreters.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “process theology”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “process theology”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “process theology”
- Using it as a general term for any theology about processes (e.g., liturgical process). Capitalizing incorrectly ('Process theology' is acceptable, but not required). Confusing it with 'progressive theology'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While developed primarily by thinkers working within a Christian context and addressing Christian theological problems, its philosophical framework has been applied to interfaith dialogue and is not exclusively Christian.
It redefines divine power from coercive, unilateral control to persuasive, relational influence. It denies omnipotence in the sense of God being able to single-handedly determine all events.
Panentheism (God in everything, everything in God) is a broad category. Process theology offers a specific, metaphysically detailed version of panentheism based on process philosophy.
No, it is primarily an academic, philosophical discourse. Its complex metaphysics and non-traditional view of God make it difficult to translate into mainstream pastoral or liturgical practice.
A theological movement emphasizing that God is not static but is in a dynamic, relational process of becoming, influenced by events in the world, and is not omnipotent in the classical sense.
Process theology is usually academic, theological in register.
Process theology: in British English it is pronounced /ˈprəʊ.ses θiˈɒl.ə.dʒi/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈprɑː.ses θiˈɑː.lə.dʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a process God”
- “in the process tradition”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of God in the *process* of experiencing the world, not as a finished statue but as a living, changing being.
Conceptual Metaphor
GOD IS A CO-SUFFERING COMPANION / GOD IS THE POET OF THE WORLD (Whitehead's metaphor).
Practice
Quiz
Which philosopher is most directly associated with the foundations of process theology?