What Critical Theory Gets Wrong—and Right | Neil Shenvi & Pat Sawyer
Oct 3, 2023
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Dr. Neil Shenvi and Dr. Pat Sawyer discuss critical social theories and their connection to Christianity, highlighting the truths and lies within them. They explore topics such as the significance of race as a social construct, the culturally conditioned nature of gender expression, and the challenges of comprehending critical social theory. Their goal is to foster unity and healing in society without solely relying on critical social theory.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of unity, equal justice, and character over racial divisions contrasts with current identity politics and racial conflict ideologies.
Critical social theories employ a 'Mot and Bailey' approach, making radical claims then retreating to more defensible positions, requiring critical engagement and examination of underlying agendas.
While critical social theories highlight the social constructs of race and gender, it is crucial to discern their limitations and errors, maintaining a strong theological foundation.
Deep dives
Dr. King's vision of unity and justice
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. envisioned a society where people would be judged by the content of their character, not the color of their skin. His vision emphasized unity, equal justice under the law, and the importance of character over racial divisions. However, the current social landscape is characterized by growing ideologies that promote racial conflict and division, often perpetuated by those who claim to be heirs of the civil rights movement. The podcast explores the reasons behind the shift from Dr. King's vision to the current emphasis on identity politics, and how Christians can respond without compromising their faith.
Understanding Critical Social Theories and Social Justice Ideologies
The podcast features an interview with authors Neil Shenvie, PhD in theoretical chemistry, and Pat Sawyer, PhD in educational and cultural studies, discussing their book 'Critical Dilemma'. The book delves into the rise of critical social theories and social justice ideologies. It examines how these theories address power dynamics, identity, justice, and morality based on categories such as race, gender, and class. The authors emphasize the extensive influence of critical social theories in academia, society, and even the church. They explain the interconnectedness of various critical theories like critical race theory, queer theory, and postcolonialism, while cautioning against adopting these ideologies without examining their compatibility with biblical Christianity.
The Mot and Bailey Approach of Critical Social Theories
The podcast explores the concept of the 'Mot and Bailey' approach, which is commonly employed by critical social theories. This approach involves making radical claims that are hard to defend, but when challenged, retreating to more defensible positions. For example, the claim that all white people are racist can be followed by the retreat to the position that societal structures still benefit whites and disadvantage people of color. By recognizing this fallacy, it becomes important to hold critical theories accountable for their bold claims and to understand the underlying agendas and beliefs that shape them. The podcast highlights the need for Christians to engage critically with these ideas while maintaining a steadfast commitment to biblical truth and justice.
Wokeness as a Fulfillment of Spiritual Need
Wokeness and critical social theory fill a spiritual need for individuals by providing a way for them to feel righteous and good about themselves. It offers a sense of being on the right side of history, looking down on others, and cleansing oneself through performing certain actions like posting the right content or voting for the right politicians. This notion of self-righteousness is in contrast to the Christian gospel, which emphasizes the fallen nature of human beings and the need for trust in a higher power for redemption.
Acknowledging Truth in Critical Social Theories
While critical social theories are often dismissed, it is important to recognize the elements of truth they present. For example, they highlight the social construct of race, emphasizing that racial categories are not rooted in biological distinctions. This serves as a reminder to address the effects of racial history and navigate the lingering consequences of slavery and discrimination. Similarly, critical theories acknowledge that certain aspects of gender expression are socially constructed, challenging rigid gender norms and encouraging appreciation for diverse gender identities. However, it is crucial to discern the limitations and errors within these theories, maintaining a strong theological foundation and rejecting notions that go against God's created order.
Between Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech and the modern social justice movement, the definition of "justice" changed. But critical social theories are based on important truths, even if they mix them with lies. Shane welcomes Drs. Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer to identify those truths and lies using their new book, Critical Dilemma.
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