Embodiment and liberation: a comparative exploration of ecological theologies

http://dp.la/api/items/244f7e4b83e51288e9b6ee73a2372d63

Embodiment and liberation: a comparative exploration of ecological theologies

Bentley, Lia

2014-03

Context, as a metaphor for our specific and embodied experiences, must be accounted for when discussing planetary challenges of environmental deterioration and social inequality. These issues have driven theological response to the need for a new cultural paradigm. My thesis compares Ivone Gebaraâs theological ecofeminism to Paul F. Knitterâs pluralism through an analysis of panentheist theology and postcolonial critiques of liberation hermeneutics. While Knitterâs theology focuses on the urgency of cross-cultural communication, Gebara highlights the intrinsic worth of every living organism as a motivation for grassroots social change. Through this study, it is clear that although practical strategies for dialogical action are needed, the theological basis of ecofeminist panentheism more adequately nurtures an environmental ethic than the pluralist approach. These perspectives explore practical solutions to pressing social and environmental concerns. A shift in cultural values must occur if we are to address ecological challenges, and this can be guided in part through alternative understandings of God.

Ecological theology

Human ecology

Liberation

Ecofeminism

Plains to Peaks Collective

English

https://digitalcc.coloradocollege.edu/islandora/object/coccc:9922

2014-03

Plains to Peaks Collective

Ecological theology

Human ecology

Liberation

Ecofeminism