Political Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed

Description

There is an increasingly intense interest in political theology amongst contemporary scholars and students. Yet, while there are many authors engaging in political theology, there are very few resources about political theology which aim to orient students and other recent new-comers to the field. This is a concise and accessible advanced introduction which distinguishes various approaches to political theology, and which explores several of the central issues addressed in political theologies. Theological students will be able to approach courses and readings in political theology with a renewed confidence with this overview in hand.

Elizabeth Philips is Tutor in Theology and Ethics at Westcott House and also lectures in the Faculty of Divinity, University of Cambridge, UK.

This short volume by Elizabeth Philips is a welcome contribution that will assist the beginner to understand theological debates over the nature of politics . . . The presentation is clear and direct, and appropriate particularly for undergraduate students. -- Christopher Craig Brittain, University of Aberdeen * The Expository Times * Elizabeth Phillips offers a solid and concise introductory text for those who want to become acquainted with Political Theology or introduce students to this field. -- Nathan Willowby, Marquette University, US * Theological Book Review * 'This is one of the most lucidly composed and carefully constructed books on political theology. Undergraduates and graduate students alike will greatly appreciate Elizabeth Phillips' systematic thinking and crystal clear writing. I can't wait to use this book in the classroom!' - Craig Hovey, Ashland University, USA. -- Craig Hovey 'This book is unlike any other. It is an accessible map of the field of political theology, providing a brief history of its emergence, an outline of types of approach, and a sampling of how major theologians have dealt with the central issues in political theology. The clear organization and writing make the book ideally suited for the classroom. Beyond introducing the thought of others, Phillips also interjects insightful comments and questions into the text that show her to be a worthy participant in the wider conversation that she summarizes so lucidly. This book is a valuable contribution to a growing field." - William T. Cavanaugh, DePaul University, USA -- William T. Cavanaugh 'A fine introduction to political theology. Writing in a style that makes the book eminently suitable for undergraduate as well as postgraduate students, Phillips offers a refreshingly non-partisan presentation, focussing on both theological sources and political contexts. Discussion of important historical figures-such as Augustine, Aquinas, Luther, Barth and Bonhoeffer-are complemented by an engagement with contemporary political theologians-from Gutierrez and Cone to Yoder and O'Donovan, from Milbank and Cavanaugh to Althaus-Reid and Ruether. Interwoven with these discussions is the critical consideration of contexts: from 'liberal society' to 'marginalisation'. Above all, the reader is persuaded that political theology matters. A compelling introduction.' - Peter Manley Scott, The University of Manchester, UK -- Peter Manley Scott