We Have Never Been Gods

Transcendence, Contingency and the Affirmation of Hybridity

Authors

  • Peter Manley Scott University of Glocestershire

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/ecot.9.2.199.38070

Keywords:

hybridity, doctrine of creation, creatio ex nihilo, imago dei

Abstract

This article offers a theological response to the postmodern affirmation of hybridity, that is, the ‘mixing up’ of nature and humanity by technology. Drawing on the doctrine of creation, specifically the interpretation of creation as creatio ex nihilo, it argues that Christianity—contrary to either its instinctual aversion to or learned fascination with technology—should accept the reality of hybridity. Furthermore, it is argued that the concept of imago dei can be extended to encompass such hybridity. Refusing Elaine Graham’s turn to immanence in her recent work (Graham 2002), the theme of creatio ex nihilo is further explored by reference to transcendence and
contingency. The article concludes that transcendence and contingency offer a theological context for the consideration of hybridity. This context is practical: concerned primarily with the distribution of God’s goodness through hybridity and hybrid practices, and with human participation in that distribution.

Author Biography

  • Peter Manley Scott, University of Glocestershire
    Lecturer in Theology and Academic Dean, Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Gloucestershire, Francis Close Hall, Swindon Road, Cheltenham, GL50 4AZ, UK

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Published

2004-08-24

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Scott, P. M. (2004). We Have Never Been Gods: Transcendence, Contingency and the Affirmation of Hybridity. Journal for the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture, 9(2), 199-220. https://doi.org/10.1558/ecot.9.2.199.38070