Modeling the relationship between assumptions and science
Posted on November 7, 2007
How do you imagine or describe the interface of the study of psychology and Christian beliefs? Those interested in the project of a Christian psychology recognize that in order to study any field of study, one must come to that study with a set of assumptions. It is not possible to come in a purely objective manner. As with all psychological models, Christian psychology assumes a certain set of assumptions about human nature, pathology, change as it observes common characteristics about the mind and soul. While our members hold a diversity of opinions, there are common assumptions held by all.
But, how do assumptions and scientific observations work together to build a Christian psychology? This post presents a few of the common attempts to wed the two worlds.
The two book model. We should note that some still consider assumptions and scientific observations as apples and oranges–completely different worlds that should not overlap. This model is sometimes call the “two book” model (the book of belief and the book of science/general revelation). If there is any interaction, empirical findings may challenge certain beliefs. Psychologies of religion are popular in this model.
The overlap model. Similarly, some imagine that the worlds of Christianity (beliefs) and science are mostly different but with some overlap when discussing meaning and value. We might call this the overlap model. The task of integration, in this model, is in the area of overlap where both belief and science discuss the same issues. Traditional integrationist programs tend to think about Christian psychology as a way of addressing this narrow place of overlap.
The filter model. Some assert that the entire task of psychology functions within a particular frame of reference. Since the majority of psychology is done within a humanistic frame, those practitioners who operate out of a Christian frame attempt to filter psychological research and theory through a Christian or biblical filter. For example, unconditional positive regard may be passed through the filter of Christian belief about love and deemed to be a particular form of grace.
The Recasting model. Some practitioners consider the filter model as too passive–ignoring the many subtle ways secular worldviews shape the very questions being asked about problems and solutions. These folk assert that the biblical text ought to shape the questions we ask of psychology. They recognize that the biblical text is rich in describing the nature of human troubles and the solutions to them. However, they also recognize the value of psychology to describe in greater detail things such as eating disorders, family life cycle, etc. Therefore, proponents of the recasting model look for psychological data that can be placed within the biblical model to flesh out an already robust biblical psychology.
The question we must consider is whether any of these integrative models adequately describe the relationship between belief and science or whether a Christian psychology must arise from another model altogether.
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