Ernst Troeltsch's methodological approach in "Religion in History" and his broader theological and religious studies is characterized by a combination of historical analysis and critical theory. Here are some key aspects of his method:

1. **Historical Contextualization**: Troeltsch emphasizes understanding religious phenomena within their historical contexts. He argues that to comprehend the development and significance of religious ideas and practices, one must consider the social, political, and cultural circumstances in which they arose.

2. **Religious Pluralism**: Troeltsch acknowledges the diversity of religious expressions and traditions. He examines how different religions interact with each other and with broader historical processes, noting that no single religious tradition can claim absolute or universal truth.

3. **Historical Development and Evolution**: Troeltsch is interested in how religious ideas evolve over time. He explores how religious movements and doctrines change in response to historical events and shifts in societal values.

4. **Sociological Analysis**: In addition to historical analysis, Troeltsch employs sociological perspectives to understand the role of religion in society. He examines how religious institutions and beliefs influence social structures and vice versa.

5. **Critical Historical Method**: Troeltsch applies a critical approach to historical sources and traditions. He questions the validity and reliability of religious texts and traditions, aiming to uncover the underlying historical realities and biases.

6. **Influence of Religion on Culture**: Troeltsch explores the reciprocal relationship between religion and culture, investigating how religious beliefs shape cultural norms and how cultural changes affect religious practices.

Overall, Troeltsch’s method is integrative, combining historical, sociological, and critical approaches to offer a nuanced understanding of religion's role and development throughout history. His work remains influential in the fields of theology, religious studies, and history.

About the Author

Ernst Peter Wilhelm Troeltsch (17 February 1865 – 1 February 1923) was a German liberal Protestant theologian, a writer on the philosophy of religion and the philosophy of history, and a classical liberal politician. He was a member of the History of Religions school. His work was a synthesis of a number of strands, drawing on Albrecht Ritschl, Max Weber's conception of sociology, and the Baden school of neo-Kantianism.

Product details

Publisher ‏ : ‎ T&T Clark Edinburgh; First Published 1991

Language ‏ : ‎ English

Paperback ‏ : ‎ 386 pages

ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0567291928

ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0567291929

Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 1 x 7.75 inches

Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.05 pounds

Condition: Used Good

Trade Paperback: The previous owner's name is inscribed on the flyleaf; otherwise, it is very good. Pages are clean, unmarked, and unbent. The cover has light creasing and age tanning.