The Metaphysics of Historical Jesus Research: An Argument for Increasing the Plurality of Metaphysical Frameworks within Historical Jesus Research

In this thesis I examine the metaphysical presuppositions that influence modern academic historical Jesus research. observe within discipline a tendency to operate with secular presupposition refuse allow religious opportunity contribute historiography, conceptualised in relation category of worldview (or Weltanschauung) as developed western philosophical tradition. The is divided into two sections. first half lay technical foundation by which address chosen topic. This involves careful and practical definition terms ‘metaphysics’ ‘worldview’, whereby define latter former. set taken for granted when evaluating new information pertaining external world. apply question decision making, observing historiography requires historian adopt make judgements. Thus, distinguish between an historian’s per se they may undertake research, labelled historiographical worldview. then phenomenon secularism through lens three theories secularization, concluding one might describe scholarship if its contains predisposition refusing task. In second thesis, having laid foundation, turn understood attempts undertaken higher education setting apprehend person Jesus, beginning Reimarus, until present day. worldviews operative extent participants frameworks ought not historiography. The task up broad overview quest, while takes critical realist approach N. T. Wright specific test case examines manifest Wright’s work. Between quest detailed engagement Wright, claim significantly where have refused perspectives task. I conclude outlining implications argument research: invite expand notion acceptability include methods constructed other (i.e., non-secular) frameworks. also offer suggestions regarding shape Christian take result further study on matter, series criteria such must fulfil be both rigorously application genuinely foundation.