The authors'proposal for a hermeneutics of action and responsibility is compelling. In the end, the thing that makes this book so satisfying is its self-conscious effort to interact faithfully with modern hermeneutical theory from a firm grounding in historic Christian faith."

-MARK A. NOLL Wheaton College

A COOPERATIVE VENTURE of literary and biblical scholars, The Responsibility of Hermeneutics presents a new approach to hermeneutical theory based on a philosophy of action. Rather than seeing language as the locus of meaning, the authors argue that textual meaning arises out of the diverse and interrelated actions performed by authors and readers in producing and using texts.

Roger Lundin introduces the study by tracing the intellectual roots of hermeneutical thinking, particularly as they have influenced American attitudes toward textual interpretation; Clarence Walhout then delineates an action model for hermeneutics, distinguishing it from other models; and finally, Anthony Thiselton analyzes the practical implications of an action model for hermeneutics for the parables of Jesus.

The product of a year of research, reflection, and discussion at the Calvin Center for Christian Scholarship, this book will be of interest to literary and biblical scholars, as well as philosophers.

ROGER LUNDIN is Associate Professor of English at Wheaton College in Illinois. ANTHONY C. THISELTON is Senior Lecturer in Biblical Studies at the University of Sheffield, England. CLARENCE WALHOUT is Professor of English at Calvin Colleg.