Bir Kimliğin İzini Sürmek: Üniversite Öğrencilerinin İlahiyatçı Kavramına İlişkin Metaforik Algıları
Tracing an Identity: University Students’ Metaphorical Perceptions of the Theologian Concept

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this study is to reveal the metaphorical perceptions of university students—who are enrolled in faculties other than higher religious education institutions—regarding the identity of theologians. The study was conducted in accordance with the phenomenological research design, one of the qualitative research methods. Data were collected through a fully structured interview form, in which participants were asked to complete the statement: “A theologian is like … because …”. A total of 128 students studying in 12 different faculties at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University participated in the study. The collected data were first transferred into Microsoft Excel format and subsequently subjected to content analysis by the researcher. In this process, each response was assigned a code, and these codes were then grouped and categorized based on their conceptual similarities. The consistency and reliability of the coding process were tested using the Miles and Huberman formula (Reliability = Number of Agreements / Total Number of Agreements + Disagreements). As a result of the analysis, three categories emerged: competence, social expectation, and field of employment. The findings indicate that, from the perspective of university students, the identity of theologians corresponds to a diverse and, at times, complex set of perceptions. Within this framework, theologians are generally perceived as possessing sufficient religious knowledge and skills and as capable of coping with various challenges. However, they are occasionally characterized in a dogmatic manner, influenced by perceptions shaped by the perceived opposition between religion and science. Furthermore, the discourse surrounding theologians circulating in society, along with the responsibilities attributed to them by different social groups, appears to form a basis for students’ perceptions. In this regard, social expectations play a role in shaping the image of theologians. Finally, theologians are also associated with professional roles such as teachers, religious officials, civil servants, and academics. The findings were discussed and interpreted in light of relevant literature, taking into account existing discourses, constructions, and analytical frameworks on the subject.

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