Reimagining the Human: Theological Anthropology in Response to Systemic Evil

by Eleazar S. Fernandez

Exploring theological anthropology, the doctrine of what it means to be human and to be created in God's image, Fernandez argues that our life in the image of God is damaged and frustrated by the systemic evils of society, particularly classism, racism, sexism, and naturism (destructive practices against the ecosystem). At the heart of these four evils are matters of faith and idolatry, idols that demand the sacrifice of our souls, bodies, time, and anything that we cherish most. In response, Fernandez constructs an alternative anthropology that is nonanthropocentric. He proposes an anthropology that seeks connections while respecting the integrity of the individual, that moves beyond patriarchy, and that makes possible the development of an integrated self. His alternative anthropology transgresses class privileges and restores the humanity of all; it is not "color-blind" nor indifferent to difference, but sees difference as a principle of interdependence and life.

Genres: Theology

288 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2003

Reviews

[Rev. Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a text for a Spring 2017 Wintermester class at Brite-- a real eye and heart opener--particularly touched by this story: "Soon after the devastation of the First World War, Quakers responded to the need of the impoverished people of Poland by distributing food and clothing...one relief worker contracted typhus and died...canonical law forbade burying anyone not of that confession in consecrated ground...worker was buried in a grace outside the fence of the cemetery...BUT DURING THE NIGHT THE VILLAGERS MOVED THE FENCE OF THE CEMETERY TO INCLUDE THE GRAvE" - I said a hearty Amen after reading this story--From the Publisher: This book explores theological anthropology - the doctrine of what it means to be human and to be created in God's image. Fernandez argues that our life in the image of God is damaged and frustrated by the systemic evil of society, particularly the four radical evils of classism, racism, sexism, and naturism (destructive practices against the ecosystem). At the heart of these four evils are matters of faith and idolatry - worshiping human constructs and living under the lie of false securities. Idols demand the sacrifice of our souls, bodies, time, and anything that we cherish most.