The Metaphysics of Historical Jesus Research

Book excerpt: "In this book Rowlands interrogates the theological and philosophical foundations of the Quest for the historical Jesus, from Reimarus to the present day, culminating in a call for greater metaphysical transparency and diversity in the discipline. This multidisciplinary approach to historical Jesus research, drawing on historiography, sociology, philosophy, and theology, makes a significant and original contribution to the field. Part I outlines the implicit role of metaphysical presuppositions in historical methodology by examining the concept of an historiographical worldview. Part II provides an overview of the Quest for the historical Jesus, demonstrating that the disparate historiographical worldviews operative in the Quest evidence a particular shared characteristic, in that they might accurately be described as 'secular'. Rowlands' study concludes with a call for a greater plurality and openness regarding the philosophical and theological presuppositions at work in historical Jesus research. The Metaphysics of Historical Jesus Research is of interest to students and scholars working on New Testament studies and historical Jesus research"--