Bad Theology: Oppression in the Name of God

by Leah Robinson

Why does bad theology happen to good people? Is it even possible for theology to go "bad"? On the one hand, the answer ought to be ‘no’. It comes from God, so how can it be bad? Yet theology is predominately human construct, and as a result, humans can influence their theological conclusions with their own desires and beliefs. The result, more often than we care to admit, is ‘bad theology’. Drawing on a careful definition of ‘bad theology’ as theology which denies human flourishing, avoids self-reflection and doesn’t seek justice and equality, Leah Robinson offers a series of penetrating case studies which show what bad theology can look like when put into action. As we look at how theology can be bad, she argues, we might begin to understand how it might be better.

Genres: Theology

256 pages, Paperback

Published April 28, 2023

Reviews

[Kristy Whaley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good, practical look at how theology can be done to lead to oppression. She lays out criteria that is easily applied anywhere, but then demonstrates how it has been done through well researched case studies. And helpfully includes how theology can be done for good.