Jari Ristiniemi

Jari Ristiniemi is a Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Gävle, where he also serves as Educational Director for the Master's program in Religious Studies. He joined the university in 1999, previously holding positions as Head of the Department of Cultural, Religious and Educational Studies (2010-2011) and Subject Representative for Religious Studies (2002-2009). Prior to Gävle, he taught at Uppsala University and Sköndal Institute/Ersta & Sköndal University.

Education:

• Bachelor of Theology, Uppsala University (1981)
• Doctor of Theology in Philosophy of Religion, Uppsala University (1987)

His research explores the intersections of ethics, religion, and existential philosophy, with emphases on:

• Globalization and social ethics
• Dostoevsky's philosophical legacy
• Paul Tillich's differential monism
• Children's existential questions and meaning-making
• Existential pedagogy in higher education

Ristiniemi's work bridges theology, cultural analysis, and educational theory through phenomenological and interdisciplinary frameworks.

Publications since 2019 demonstrate strong thematic coherence: 80% analyze existential philosophy (particularly Tillich/Dostoevsky), 40% focus on childhood existentialism, and 33% address democracy/totalitarianism. Recurring methodologies include theological hermeneutics, educational ethnography, and cultural critique.

Administrative service includes committee roles for Uppsala University's Gender Equality Committee, library council, and the North American Paul Tillich Society Board (2016-2018). Pedagogic training includes Uppsala's teacher/supervisor certification programs.