Associate Professor of Theology the Rev. Dr. Robert MacSwain’s latest book, Essays Anglican and Analytic: Explorations in Critical Catholicism is available online and will be in stores April 17.
In this thought-provoking essay collection, MacSwain explores important connections between Anglican and philosophical theology. Shining a spotlight on the underappreciated theological work of Austin Farrer and David Brown, he brings them into creative conversation with better-known figures such as Joseph Butler, C. S. Lewis, Stanley Hauerwas, and Eleonore Stump. More broadly, MacSwain outlines what he calls “Critical Catholicism,” explaining how it differs from other movements in contemporary Christian thought such as Radical Orthodoxy and Analytic Theology. These perceptive essays will be of particular interest to scholars and pastors who are curious about connections between theology, philosophy, and Anglican studies.
"There are lots of books about Anglican theology, but not as many books of Anglican theology. In this essay collection, I do try to make a cumulative argument about the nature of Anglican identity, but my primary goal is to explore the connection between Anglican theology and analytic philosophy, especially through the work of Austin Farrer and David Brown," says MacSwain.
Essays Anglican and Analytic joins Anglican Theology: Postcolonial Perspectives—the latest book by Distinguished Professor of Global Anglicanism the Rt. Rev. James Tengatenga, published in summer 2024—as a significant recent contribution by Sewanee’s School of Theology faculty. In Anglican Theology, co-edited with Stephen Burns, Tengatenga begins to correct widespread bias in Anglican theology toward Britain and the North Atlantic by exploring the work of 18 tricontinental and marginalized Anglican theologians.
Together these works underscore the importance —theological, philosophical, and practical—that the School of Theology places on the study of Anglicanism. “We are part of the Anglican Communion,” says Bishop Tengatenga about the Episcopal Church. “To understand our place and our connectedness with the worldwide church helps students understand that we are not an island. “We are part of a family church that is worldwide,” explains Tengatenga about the seminary’s approach.
About MacSwain’s latest book Professor Emeritus of Philosophy Charles Taliaferro of St. Olaf College writes, “Robert MacSwain’s book brings to light the profound Anglican contribution to theology and philosophy since the mid-20th century. It is erudite, engaging, based on thorough research, and includes his own insights on the relationship between faith and reason. Highly recommended to non-Anglicans and Anglicans, scholars and laypersons.
Find Essays Anglican and Analytic: Explorations in Critical Catholicism in bookstores or here online.
