Empowering African knowledge to influence communities, policy, and progress
Abstract
Purpose: This study critically examines theological perspectives on climate stewardship and creation care across diverse Christian traditions. It addresses the deficit in quantitative analysis within theological discourse on environmental ethics, asking: How do distinct theological paradigms particularly biblical stewardship, dominion interpretations, and ecotheological frameworks influence Christian engagement with climate change?
Design/Methodology: A quantitative research design was adopted. Drawing on a structured coding scheme developed from established theological dimensions, data were collected via surveys among theological scholars and clergy across denominational contexts. Respondents rated theological commitments and corresponding stewardship actions on Likert scales. Statistical analysis (factor analysis, regression) quantified the strength of associations between theological constructs and selfreported environmental engagement.
Findings: Results indicate that biblically rooted stewardship beliefs positively correlate with higher climate action scores, whereas literalist dominion interpretations correlate with lower engagement. Ecotheological orientations significantly predict proactive environmental practices. These findings reveal measurable differences in environmental commitment tied to specific theological frameworks.
Originality/Value: This research is among the first to empirically quantify theological influences on environmental behaviour, bridging a longstanding gap between theology and climate science. By operationalising theological constructs for quantitative analysis, the study advances theory and praxis in creation care discourse.
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