Based on the premise that advances in knowledge are the result not so much of new theories, but of new methods of formulating theories, this well-articulated study of theology serves as a clear and focused introduction to the study of theology in general and of theological method in particular. How does one theologize? The first part of this study provides a concise presentation of the problem of method and of the traditional answers to this problem. The second part contains a thorough exposition of the philosophy and methodology of Ricoeur, and a critical evaluation of his Hermeneutical phenomenology. This analysis of the various currents of thought in methodology leads him to question, in the third part of the book, whether hermeneutics, traditionally limited to the field of biblical studies, should not be extended to the whole of theology. "A significant contribution to this new and fundamental area of theological discussion." -Thomas A. Marsh, St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, Ireland.