A Revolutionary Faith: Liberation Theology Between Public Religion and Public Reason

Religious commitments can be a powerful engine for progressive social change, as demonstrated by Latin American liberation theology and the work of Peruvian theologian Gustavo Gutiérrez. Raúl E. Zegarra's book explores how liberation theologians have produced a new balance between faith and politics that advances an agenda of progressive social change without reducing politics to faith or faith to politics. It focuses on key historical, philosophical, and theological shifts that have allowed liberation theologians to interpret the relationship between faith and politics in the Christian tradition, particularly when issues of social justice are at stake. The book also approaches liberation theology's contributions to theorizing social justice through a critical dialogue with the work of philosopher John Rawls, offering a blueprint for theological innovation and how to remain committed to one's faith while respecting and defending the core values of democracy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Stanford University Press

Religious commitments have the potential to drive significant social change, as explored in Raúl E. Zegarra's new book. Through a detailed examination of religious organizing and activism, Zegarra delves into the process of articulating religious beliefs and political concerns. By focusing on the example of Latin American liberation theology and the work of Peruvian theologian Gustavo Gutiérrez, Zegarra demonstrates how liberation theologians have achieved a harmonious balance between faith and politics, advancing a progressive social agenda without compromising either principle.

Drawing from the method of critical correlation developed by theologian David Tracy, the book explores key historical, philosophical, and theological shifts that have enabled liberation theologians to reinterpret the relationship between faith and politics within the Christian tradition, particularly when addressing issues of social justice. Moreover, the book engages in a critical dialogue with the work of philosopher John Rawls, shedding light on liberation theology's contributions to social justice theory.

By positioning itself between public religion and public reason, the book offers a valuable blueprint for theological innovation and navigating the complexities of faith and democracy. It encourages readers to remain committed to their faith while respecting and defending the fundamental values of democracy, fostering a more inclusive and progressive society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781503635371