Liberation Theology

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that liberation theology refers to a new way of interpreting Christianity as a doctrine by applying the Biblical precepts and teachings to the historical and social contexts of humanity. The author points out that Bonino observes that the modern world is essentially political in most of its manifestations; therefore, Christian ethics have to adapt and to become a part of political ideology if it is to survive. The paper stresses that, if it can be deduced from the Bible that all God's actions are directed so as to save or liberate man from adverse conditions or from oppression, then man should follow the same example in his social world through his commitment to the cause of the poor. The paper includes several quotations.

From the Paper:

"The theologian thus emphasizes the active role that a Christian needs to play in a world which is dominated by power relationships that are very remote from ethical doctrine of the Bible. For its activism, Liberation Theology has been often compared to the Marxist doctrine, as both emphasize the need for social change and advocate the precedence of the social over political. This is why the Christian must be active and pursue practical purposes, such as justice and the liberation of the poor. As Bonino contends, human action is the principle which shapes reality."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Bonino, Jose Miguez. Toward a Christian Political Ethics. Philadelphia: Fortress, 1983.

More papers on Liberation Theology:

• Research Paper # 64903 : "Liberation Theology"
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• Essay # 46512 : "Brazil's Liberation Theology"

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