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Religion Theology

Political Theology in the Canadian Context

edited by Benjamin G. Smillie

Publisher
CCSR, Wilfrid Laurier University Press
Initial publish date
Jan 2006
Category
Theology, Essays, Religion, Politics & State
  • eBook

    ISBN
    9780889206083
    Publish Date
    Jan 2006
    List Price
    $32.95
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9780919812161
    Publish Date
    Jun 1982
    List Price
    $34.99

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Description

This collection focusses on the proposition "that theology is at its best when it is political, and politics is saved from a secular ideology when it listens to a theological critique." The editor draws parallels between the Canaanite period of Israelite history and the "Liberal Possessive Individualism" that he sees dominating Canadian ideology. Following William Hordern's essay defining political theology, economist Abraham Rotstein examines "The Apocalyptic Tradition: Luther and Marx" and philosopher Kai Nielsen, writing from a atheistic and socialist perspective, asks, "Do We Need a Political Theology?" Dorothee Sölle, eminent student of political theology, writes on "Theology and Liberation.": Two Quebec theologians, Yves Vaillancourt and Guy Bourgeault, give a Christian-Marxist analysis of "Church and Worker in Quebec." Roger Hutchinson provides a concluding summary statement. Responses by Gregory Baum, Patrick Kerans, and the editor enhance the collection. The volume makes clear in the increasing importance of political theology in the study of religion and theneed for increased dialogue between theology and politics.

About the author

Benjamin G. Smillie, Professor of Church and Society, St. Andrew’s College, Saskatoon, also teaches in the School of Religious Studies, University of Saskatchewan. He is a contributor to the volumes The Social Gospel in Canada and More than Survival and to various journals. He holds the Ed.D. from Columbia University.

Benjamin G. Smillie's profile page