Issues, Etc. Critical Theory: Past and Present – Dr. Carl Trueman, 6/27/25 (1772)
Jun 27, 2025
Dr. Carl Trueman, a biblical and religious studies professor at Grove City College, dives deep into critical theory's historical roots and contemporary implications. He explores the tension between expressive individualism and community values, analyzing how Marxist thought has shaped modern identity. Trueman discusses Freud's influence on sexual liberation, the complexities of feminism, and critical theory’s paradox of seeking freedom while creating oppression. He emphasizes the church's role in navigating these challenges while remaining grounded in biblical perspectives.
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Critical Theory on Human Nature
- Critical theory challenges traditional human nature by viewing current concepts as oppressive social constructs.
- Marxist and postmodern streams reject or defer human nature to a revolutionary future or see it as power-generated fiction.
Standpoint Epistemology in Culture
- Critical theory often discredits opinions based on social identity, a method called standpoint epistemology.
- Terms like "white fragility" exemplify dismissing views as products of privilege rather than reason.
Christianity vs. Critical Theory on Morality
- Christianity holds human nature as fixed by God's image and sees conformity to it as liberating.
- In contrast, critical theory views traditional morals like sexual continence as oppressive myths.