Quaker Theology

Liberal, Evangelical & Non-Theist Quaker Theology

Examines the extraordinary theological diversity of modern Quakerism, including Conservative, evangelical, liberal, universalist, non-theist, and materialist perspectives, and asks how Friends with profoundly different understandings of God and religious authority can share a common Quaker identity.

  • The Authenticity of Liberal Quakerism

    This article explores the authenticity of liberal Quakerism by examining its views on the church, scripture, Jesus, and Quaker history over the last two centuries. The author argues that liberal Quakerism remains a legitimate and coherent expression of Quaker faith, emphasizing inclusivity, continuing revelation, and the manifestation of the true church beyond doctrinal boundaries. Historical…

  • “Godless For God’s Sake: Nontheism In Contemporary Quakerism”* — A Review

    This review praises “Godless For God’s Sake,” a book by Quaker non-theists, for its thoughtful and challenging theological reflections within Quakerism. It highlights the deep history of non-theist and humanist thought among Quakers and calls for acceptance and dialogue rather than rejection of such perspectives within the Society of Friends.

  • “The Trouble with God: Building the Republic of Heaven”* A Review

    The review discusses David Boulton’s exploration of God as a necessary fictional story that societies and individuals cannot do without, even for non-theists. Boulton’s concept of a “Republic of Heaven” highlights God as a symbolic embodiment of human values, with historical roots in radical figures like Gerrard Winstanley. The reviewer contrasts Boulton’s view with the…

  • “Wrestling With Our Faith Tradition”* A Review

    The post reviews Lloyd Lee Wilson’s book on Conservative Quakerism, critiquing his portrayal of a “classic Quaker tradition” that blends traditional Quaker beliefs with various modern spiritual ideas. The review highlights Wilson’s overly individualistic peace testimony, problematic biblical interpretations, and an unacknowledged history of communal oversight’s oppressive potential, while cautioning against his dismissive stance toward…

  • A Reflection: This Is a Start

    This article reflects on the core beliefs of Quakers, emphasizing their openness to diverse theological perspectives and the centrality of seeking truth through personal and communal experience of God’s spirit. It highlights the Quaker commitment to inclusivity, the ongoing search for divine guidance, and the importance of love, compassion, and mutual respect in worship and…

  • Sense and Sensibilities: Quaker Bispirituality Today

    The article explores the historical and theological tensions within Quakerism, particularly between evangelical and liberal traditions, likening these conflicts to biblical interactions and early Christian debates. It advocates for a “bispiritual” Quakerism that embraces respectful coexistence and complementary differences among diverse beliefs and identities in a postmodern context. The piece highlights the need for mutual…

  • Shaggy Locks & Birkenstocks

    This article explores the evolution of American liberal Quaker attitudes toward George Fox, highlighting the tension between psychic, mystic, and skeptic perspectives since the mid-19th century. It critiques the dismissal of traditional theology within liberal Friends, traces key scholarly contributions challenging this trend, and emphasizes the ongoing need to reassess Fox’s legacy in light of…

  • A Quaker in a Material World: A Materialist Perspective

    The article explores the compatibility of materialism, which views reality as solely physical and deterministic, with Quaker beliefs and practices. It argues that materialists can live meaningful, ethical lives aligned with Quaker values without traditional theistic beliefs, and advocates for greater inclusion and outreach to materialists within the Religious Society of Friends. The author emphasizes…

  • An Exchange: Quaker Theology Without God?

    This article presents a dialogue between Edward James and George Amoss on the compatibility of Quaker theology with atheism. James raises critical questions about the coherence of a “Quaker atheist” faith, focusing on historical theistic arguments, the role of God in Jesus’ mission, and the implications for traditional Quaker beliefs. Amoss responds by clarifying that…

  • The Influence of Psychoanalysis and Popular Psychology on Quaker Thought & Practice: An Exploratory Survey

    This article explores the significant influence of psychoanalytic and popular psychology (PNAP) on liberal, unprogrammed Quaker thought and practice over the past century. It discusses how themes such as individual focus, unconscious motivations, transformation through techniques, and shifting cultural workshops and publications have shaped contemporary Quaker spirituality and community life. The author highlights both the…

  • The Making of a Quaker Atheist

    The article recounts the author’s personal journey from Catholic faith through loss of belief, exploration of Buddhism, and discovery of Quakerism, ultimately embracing a Quaker atheistic spirituality focused on love and communal discernment. It explores how Quaker worship and practice foster a living experience of Christ’s spirit without reliance on supernatural belief. The author also…