Religion on the Mind What is a ‘Theology of Culture’? (#360)
Nov 13, 2025
Matthew Burdette, an Episcopal priest, theologian, and Penguin Random House editor, shares insights on how faith intersects with culture. He discusses the importance of keeping God distinct from cultural influences while addressing human goodness and sinfulness. Matthew challenges the effectiveness of virtue signaling, particularly around power dynamics, while exploring the complexities of immigration and Christian ethics. The conversation also delves into the tensions between personal relationships and democratic governance in the context of paternalism.
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Theology Of Culture Defined
- Paul Tillich popularized 'theology of culture' as applying theology to human experience and culture.
- Matthew Burdette says it seeks to hold the world's affirmation and disaffirmation by God together without collapsing God into culture.
Balanced View Of Human Nature
- Bad theologies overemphasize one side of human nature: either innate goodness or total depravity.
- Burdette argues a robust anthropology must include freedom, evil, and goodness together.
Use Judgment Suspension In Therapy
- Suspend moral judgment temporarily in therapy to allow honest self-examination and regain agency.
- Use that pause to restore responsibility, not to excuse behavior indefinitely.