Inaugural address Rijk van Dijk: Faith in Romance. Toward an Anthropology of Romantic Relationships, Sexuality and Responsibility in African Christianities

Prof. Rijk van DijkOn the occasion of his appointment as a Professor of Religion and Sexuality in Africa at the University of Amsterdam, ASC researcher Rijk van Dijk gave his inaugural address 'Faith in Romance. Toward an Anthropology of Romantic Relationships, Sexuality and Responsibility in African Christianities' at the UvA on Wednesday 24 June.

Read the full text, published by the University of Amsterdam.

Abstract

While religion has become an important factor in the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic in African countries, modern Christian movements have become interested in propagating romantic ideas regarding relationships and sexuality. In his inaugural lecture Rijk van Dijk focuses on the emergence of this ‘faith in romance’ among Christian movements in Africa.

Although Christianity in Africa takes many forms, it is often characterised by strict views on sexuality and relationships. One striking development is that in recent years, these views show an increasing tendency of changing in line with global and middle-class notions of romantic love and a modern lifestyle. In a context where religion has become an important factor in the fight against the HIV-AIDS epidemic, major changes are taking place in the way Christians develop their ideas on relationships, sexuality and feelings. Modern Christian movements are not just influenced by these ideas, but also help shape them. Van Dijk asks how the rise in a ‘faith in romance’ can be interpreted, especially given the attraction it holds for younger generations in parts of Africa.

Date, time and location

24 June 2015
16.00
University of Amsterdam, Singel 411, corner Spui
Aula