Baudrillard and Theology

Description

Jean Baudrillard was one of the foremost intellectual figures of the late twentieth century and his work is currently reaching a new prominence in the English-speaking world. Known as the "high priest of postmodernity", Baudrillard never directly addressed theological concerns. However, his provocative analysis of the changing nature of reality, subjectivity and agency is of increasing importance to contemporary theology. Furthermore, his mode of cultural analysis (which he himself describes as "mystical") provides fruitful possibilities for theological reasoning in the post-idealist world he describes. James Walters provides the context of Baudrillard's writing and identifies key influences. He then sets out his core ideas, drawing in theological responses and relating them to theological concerns. Finally, he highlights some areas of his work of particular theological interest.

James Walters is Chaplain to the London School of Economics.

This book will give every reader plenty to think about. -- Don Cupitt * Theology * This book is a wonderful surprise and full of fascinating insights. The author is immersed in a range of disciplines besides theology and has engaged thoroughly with the stimulating, radical thought of Baudrillard. All this comes together around key topics in a series of short, rich chapters that explain and critique Baudrillard but also go beyond him into deep theological questions and relevant commentary on contemporary life. For anyone wanting to make sense of virtual reality, global capitalism, the body, death, human community today, worship, and much else this is a book to think with. -- David F. Ford, University of Cambridge, UK Baudrillard and Theology is an impressive accomplishment. Walters makes original and convincing arguments to demonstrate Baudrillard's significance for contemporary theological thinking. Here Baudrillard's analyses of nihilism and hyperreality become an opportunity to recharge and refashion theology itself. -- Clayton Crockett, Associate Professor and Director of Religious Studies, University of Central Arkansas, USA This particular text is clearly written and provides a helpful starting point for an engagement with Baudrillard. -- John Reader, Ironstone Benefice and William Temple Foundation * Modern Believing *