This course explores the rise of theological movements
of social/political/economic liberation. It invites
students to consider ways theology has been practiced
recently among those outside the European mainstream,
particularly among the oppressed and marginalized. It
considers their critiques of, and novel contributions
to, traditional Christian theology. Among the many
liberation theologies from which this course draws are
those that have emerged among and speak to the Latin
American poor, African American, women, and other
marginalized groups throughout the world. Whenever
possible, the course includes an experiential learning
component in which students visit and dialogue with
individuals, families, and intentional communities
(i.e., communities that gather to intentionally promote
practices consonant with the kinds of liberation
explored in this course) currently involved in
liberationist approaches to theology and social change.