Theology - LT and Marx Flashcards
What is the starting point of Liberation Theology, according to Leonardo and Clodovis Boff?
The perception of scandals such as hunger, oppression, and marginalization, prevalent not only in Latin America but throughout the Third World.
According to Boff & Boff, what are the three levels of injustice addressed by Liberation Theology?
On the social level: collective oppression, exclusion, and marginalization; on the individual level: injustice and denial of human rights; on the religious level: social sinfulness contrary to the plan of the Creator.
How do the Boff brothers define the minimum response needed in the face of such injustice?
They advocate for compassion and solidarity, a “suffering with” those who are oppressed and marginalized.
What role do the Boff brothers assign to Christians in Liberation Theology?
They advocate for a prophetic commitment to the cause and struggle of the marginalized, aiming to end historical social iniquity (sin).
Who do the Boff brothers identify as the “poor” in Liberation Theology, and how is this concept related to Karl Marx’s idea of the Proletariat?
The poor are those exploited by a capitalist system, including the underemployed, unemployed, and migrant workers. This concept resonates with Marx’s idea of the Proletariat as the working class/poor.
What action do the Boff brothers emphasize as necessary in Liberation Theology, and why does it take precedence over theology and contemplation?
They emphasise “liberating action” (praxis) over theology and contemplation because action is needed to bring about liberation. Contemplation alone is insufficient.
According to the Boff brothers, why is giving aid or charity to the poor deemed ineffective in Liberation Theology?
Aid or charity treats the poor as objects of charity rather than individuals and can increase dependency, making it harder for people to escape poverty.
What is “conscientisation” in the context of Liberation Theology, and why is it crucial for liberation to occur?
“Conscientisation” refers to the process of becoming aware of the causes of oppression and organizing to address them. It is crucial for liberation because it empowers the oppressed to take coordinated action.
What role do Christians play in Liberation Theology, according to the Boff brothers?
Christians should be at the forefront of liberation movements, making common cause with the poor and working for the gospel of liberation.
How do the Boff brothers prioritise actions and theological reflection in Liberation Theology?
They emphasise that actions (orthopraxis - right actions) come first, followed by theological reflection (orthodoxy - right teachings), preferably from those actively involved in liberation efforts.
Why do liberation theologians advocate for social justice?
Liberation theologians believe that all humans are made in God’s image and worthy of honor and respect. They view the Kingdom of God as a transformation of society rather than just a heavenly realm.
How do liberation theologians expand the traditional view of the battle against Original Sin?
They argue that freedom (liberation) must involve the elimination of social sin, also known as ‘structural sin,’ which encompasses injustices within institutions and social structures.
What is meant by ‘social sin’ in the context of liberation theology?
‘Social sin’ refers to injustices embedded within institutions and social structures, such as biased education and justice systems that perpetuate alienation and exploitation.
How does liberation theology utilise Marxism?
Liberation theology employs Marxism’s analysis of capitalism, alienation, and exploitation to understand and challenge social sin, viewing Marxism as a tool for reinterpreting the Christian message in a specific context.
What is the primary approach of liberation theology in addressing societal issues?
Liberation theology emphasises action (praxis) over belief, advocating for the transformation of structures that cause social sin, as capitalism has failed to bring about meaningful change.
Why has liberation theology faced resistance from Church and state authorities?
By prioritising the needs of the poor over official Church teaching (orthopraxis before orthodoxy), liberation theology has been viewed as radical and subversive, leading to opposition from Church and state authorities.
What is the concept of ‘preferential option for the poor’ in liberation theology?
It is the belief that Christians have a duty to stand in solidarity with the poor, advocating for their rights and actively working to alleviate their suffering.
How does liberation theology approach theology in relation to the poor?
Liberation theology adopts a ‘bottom-up’ approach, starting with the material conditions of the poor rather than imposing official Church teaching on them, similar to Karl Marx’s critique of societal injustice.