Exploring Human Nature: Psychology vs. Christian Theology

1 Philosophical Anthropology School of Behavioral Sciences, Liberty University PSYC420: Psychology and Christianity (D03) Dr. Gilbert Franco November 26, 2023 Philosophical Anthropology

2 Virtually everyone attempts to understand human beings, who humans are, their purpose, and why humans do the things they do. While psychologists and Christian theologians may reach different conclusions regarding the former questions, both engage in philosophical anthropology in their attempts. Philosophical anthropology is “the study of the character, disposition, qualities, and inclinations of human beings” (Entwistle, 2021, pp. 158-159). Understanding and Approach Psychology Psychologists believe that the world is organized in such a way that observation can help them develop theories about and find answers to their questions, including questions regarding human behavior. Further, psychologists believe that predictability is possible to an extent (Entwistle, 2021, p. 159). Psychology is a science, meaning that it relies on empiricism and seeks natural explanations for human actions, thoughts, and traits. Psychologists do not rely on the scientific method alone, however. Rather, they rely on reason to develop hypotheses and theories and analyze data (p. 161). Everything one wants to know can be gleaned from observable and quantifiable data. Psychology also strives to rely on such data when assessing and developing theories regarding human behavior (p. 161). Lastly, to understand psychology’s approach to and understanding of philosophical anthropology, it is important to discuss the principal goals of psychology, which are increased knowledge, and the betterment of human life (p. 162). Therefore, one could argue that psychology approaches philosophical anthropology with curiosity, compassion, and a desire to optimize human potential (p. 162). Christian Theology

3 Christian theology takes a somewhat different approach to philosophical anthropology. The Christian approach runs deeper than an intellectual endeavor. Instead, Christians take the stance that the character, disposition, qualities, and inclinations of humans can be understood by consulting God’s revealed word, the Bible (Entwistle, 2021, p. 162-163). Christian theology relies on God’s written word to understand the human condition, but it also attempts to discern the truths found within the Bible through observing the created realm (p. 163). In other words, Christians assume that philosophical anthropology can be understood through natural and supernatural explanations. Moreover, Christian theology organizes its findings and observations into systematic theologies, meaning the patterns of organization reflect the views of various theologians or schools of theology (Entwistle, 2021, p. 164). Finally, Christian theology’s motivation for pursuing philosophical anthropology is to understand not just who, what, and why humans are but also God’s calling for them in terms of sin, grace, redemption, and revelation. When one better understands the former, one can begin to work toward salvation, sanctification, meaning, worship, and stewardship (p. 160). Perspectives and Contributions While psychology and Christian theology attempt to answer some of the same questions regarding human nature, each viewpoint offers its distinct perspectives and contributions. Psychology The psychological perspective is organized around a bio-psycho-social framework, meaning that it examines humans as biological beings, their psychological processes, and how they are affected by their social and cultural climates (Entwistle, 2021, p. 169). Psychology makes several contributions through its unique perspectives that are not offered by Christian

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4 theology. Briefly, neuroscience psychology focuses on psychological events also being biological events (Entwistle, 2021, p. 166). Through this branch of psychology, scientists seek to explain humans at the anatomical level. It offers us a glimpse of abnormalities in the brain or a person’s genes that may explain a person’s disposition (Entwistle, 2021, p. 166). Second, the behavioral perspective offers techniques for analyzing the acquisition, extinction, and modification of behaviors (p. 167). Also, cognitive psychology offers possible theories and explanations concerning the circumstances under which the human brain processes, stores, and retrieves information (p. 167). Sociocultural psychology provides theories on how behavior is shaped by one’s culture and social affiliations. While the aforementioned list is not all-encompassing, the contributions listed highlight psychology’s overarching contribution to philosophical anthropology, observable data that can only be acquired using empirical inquiry (p. 169). Christian Theology Christian theology offers its own contributions to philosophical anthropology. First, Christian theology acknowledges that, humans are by nature finite and dependent creatures. As such, we are humbled. Because of our finiteness, Christian theology acknowledges that there are limits to our knowledge, as God intended. Humans are also reminded that because we are finite and dependent, a healthy relationship with God is critical to our well-being (Entwistle, 2021, p. 173). Further, in explaining human nature, Christian theology contributes the knowledge that we are image-bearers of God. Being image bearers of God helps us understand our humanity in terms of structure, function, and relationship. We share several characteristics with God, and we are His representatives, meant to steward over creation. And humans were made to be in a

5 relationship with our creator. Lastly, to understand human nature, it must be acknowledged that human beings are sinful and fallen. When Adam and Eve sinned, not only were they cursed, but their offspring were subject to sinfulness. Sin is persistent, and some of human nature is simply because of that sinful nature (Entwistle, 2021, p. 177) Conclusion In conclusion, each perspective has a lot to offer. Rather than being opposed to each other, however, one could argue that in the case of philosophical anthropology, psychology and Christian theology are complementary. Entwistle states it best when he says that by using both vantage points, one is able to gain a more complete picture of human nature (Entwistle, 2021, p. 166). For example, the Bible is a useful guide regarding our purpose and what may need addressed spiritually in the counseling session; however, psychology allows professionals to see if there are any structural abnormalities in a patient’s brain, such as shrinkage in gray matter that is characteristic of several mental disorders. Similarly, while psychology offers useful techniques for counseling, Christian theology’s explanation of human nature, keeps the counselor humble enough to allow the Holy Spirit into the counseling session. So, while the perspectives differ, they are not incompatible or irreconcilable with each other.

6 References Entwistle, D. (2021). Integrative approaches to psychology and Christianity: An introduction to worldview issues, philosophical foundations, and models of integration (4th ed.). Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock Publishers.

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