Classical and Protestant Liberalism: Differences and Similarities

Classical and Protestant Liberalism: Similarities and Differences compares classical liberalism with Protestant liberalism. The book discusses similarities and differences between the philosophical propositions of these two liberal strands. The central argument is that Protestant liberalism has incorporated some key elements of classical liberalism to redefine essential elements of the Christian faith to appeal to the contemporary individual's sense. Protestant liberal version of Christianity sharply deviates from conventional Christianity. Classical liberal notions of natural rights, social contract, individualism, pluralism, secularization, and utilitarian perspective on ethics sustain this version of Christianity. Protestant liberals present essential aspects of Christianity to contemporary individuals through these classical liberal existential views. Protestant liberal views on the immanence of God; anthropocentrism; Jesus as an ethical example; evolutionary view of the Bible; philosophical optimism; salvation; the church as an instrument of social progress; the kingdom of God; religious authority; continuity; modernism; and reduction of Christianity to its unchanging essence reveal classical liberal influences.

Dr. Daniel Dei holds a B. A. (Theological Studies); GradDip. (Legal Studies); MA and MPhil (Religion & Human Values); MPhil (Guidance & Counseling); P.E.M. (ADR); PhD (Ethics); and PhD (Guidance & Counseling Psychology). His Postdoctoral Fellowship is in Ethics and Missions. He is an ordained Pastor, University Professor, and Researcher. He is also a dynamic speaker who has built a realistic platform on the back of more than fifteen years of pastoral and teaching ministry. He is interested in issues that relate to ethics, practical theology, and counseling. He has over 30 articles and chapters in refereed Journals and edited books.