Research areas
Church historical practices
Stina Fallberg Sundmark has expertise on historically oriented practical theology that spans from the Middle Ages to modern times. Within general historical research, Uppsala University has a strong interest in historical practices and historical forms of work. This opens up opportunities for exciting collaborations.
New Humans for new communities
From medieval mysticism via Pietism to revivals and modern civic ideals, there are visions of the new human being. These ideals have simultaneously spurred new forms of community and contributed to modernity. Cecilia Wejryd's research on the historical organization of revivals and new theological thinking during the 19th century belongs within this field.
Church, household, and nation-building
Within the broad field of church and social change, the theme of church and nation constitutes an important priority. Urban Claesson has been responsible for the network Historical Studies of National Christianities (see below), which has formed a platform for research applications and international publication. (See in particular the following special issue of the Journal of Church and State - that has been completed by doctoral students within our research discipline). In this field, there are also promising opportunities to connect to previous conceptions of the Christian household. Claesson conducts research on perceptions of the household in early modern Christian textbooks.
Early modern mission: Metropolitan and Local
Our research on mission during the early modern era focuses on ideological and specifically theological driving forces for Christian expansion, but above all, on studies of concrete, local examples of missionary activity and the emergence of Christian churches and movements outside of Europe. Magnus Lundberg's research belongs in this area.
New religious movements in change
Within the multifaceted phenomenon often called new religious movements, there are groups with evident Christian roots. Essential areas of interest within this area of research are how private revelations and charismatic authority contribute to the changes of doctrines and practices, and how such authority helps to attract and retain followers. Research within this area is conducted by Magnus Lundberg