RT Article
T1 Christianity and the Climate Crisis: Theological Assets and Deficits
JF Feminist theology
VO 22
IS 3
SP 269
OP 289
A1 Waschenfelder, Jacob
LA English
PB Sage
YR 2014
UL https://www.ixtheo.de/Record/177689605X
AB This essay examines the complex relationship between Christianity and the climate crisis. It first looks at theological convictions found in statements made by church leaders meant to advance Christian engagement. It then examines the now legendary acerbic attacks made by historian Lynn White in the late 1960s, criticizing these same theological convictions for actually disabling environmental engagement. Centrally, it then turns to the progressive, eco-theology of Sallie McFague who, while echoing White’s concerns, offers more recent and thorough criticisms of tradition-based Christian theology, focusing especially on its propagating an outdated anthropology and earth-fleeing spiritualities. Finally, the essay focuses on the tragic immediacy of the climate catastrophe, suggesting that a North American culture of optimism and consumerism is causing millions to respond with indifference and denial, and that an activist-oriented pessimism may be a more mature and constructive response to the dire situation we now face.
K1 Sallie McFague
K1 Clive Hamilton
K1 Climate Change
K1 Christian Theology
DO 10.1177/0966735014527201