Transforming Exclusion is concerned with the interface between the study of religion & theology and issues surrounding exclusion. Religious beliefs can be important in shaping attitudes that can lead to the exploitation or marginalization of both humans and non-humans. At the same time, religious beliefs and practices have much to offer in transforming the world, creating a more equitable place for all who occupy it. At other times, the voices of members of religious communities are suppressed and marginalized by other more dominant religious or secular individuals or communities. This book addresses all of these aspects of social exclusion and aims to demonstrate that the study of theology and religion, in addressing religious communities and society more widely, have important contributions to make in creating a more just world. The issue of exclusion is engaged with from a range of different perspectives by scholars involved in fieldwork with religious communities, systematic, contextual and practical theologians, and practitioners involved in the preparation of individuals and groups for a range of ministries and professions.”
Editorial Reviews
Review
‘Substantive reflection informed by the latest scholarship, critical analyses and counter questions from dialogue partners and those usually on the margins, provocative visions for a more just and redemptive ecclesial praxis – what more could readers of theological books ask for? A veritable theological feast indeed!’ – Amos Yong, Regent University School of Divinity, Virginia Beach, VA, USA. –Amos Yong
‘Inclusion” has become a fashionable word and a widely adopted goal in both Church and society. These essays, however, avoid the clichés and generalisations that can easily surround the subject, and instead look carefully at specific varieties of exclusion, recognised and unrecognised, and the very diverse challenges they present to the integrity of religious communities that claim to be welcoming or affirming. They combine personal and empirical observation with sophisticated tools of philosophical and theological analysis in a highly distinctive way. This is an unusual and very valuable collection.’ – Archbishop Rowan Williams” –Archbishop Rowan Williams
About the Author
Dr Hannah Bacon is Senior Lecturer in Feminist and Contextual Theology and Deputy Head of Theology and Religious Studies, University of Chester, UK. Dr Wayne Morris is Senior Lecturer in Contextual and Practical Theology and Deputy Head of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Chester, UK.