Walter Brueggemann, a renowned theologian and biblical scholar, shares his profound insights on prophetic imagination. He critiques the pervasive 'totalism of market ideology' that stifles dissent and encourages a vision of abundance over scarcity. Brueggemann emphasizes the need for faith communities to challenge consumerism and embrace creativity and compassion. He reflects on personal experiences and the urgency of truth-telling as a form of resistance against societal norms. This enlightening discussion honors Brueggemann’s legacy and inspires listeners to envision justice and hope.
50:24
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Imagination Beyond Market Ideology
Walter Brueggemann defines imagination as hosting a world other than the world in front of us.
He challenges us to reject narratives of scarcity and fear perpetuated by market ideology.
insights INSIGHT
Totalizing Market Ideology
Brueggemann argues the U.S. lives under a totalizing market ideology that imagines nothing outside the market.
This totalism monetizes relationships and suppresses dissent, demanding clarity that kills imagination.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Tackling Tough Topics in Church
To critique militarism and nationalism in churches, start with small study groups rather than public meetings.
Educate slowly by showing scripture's public dimension, not just personal faith, to avoid immediate dismissal.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
This book, first published in 1961, is an analysis of the experiences of fifteen Chinese citizens and twenty-five Westerners who underwent brainwashing by the Chinese Communist government. Lifton outlines eight criteria for thought reform, including Milieu Control, Mystical Manipulation, Demand for Purity, Confession, Sacred Science, Loading the Language, Doctrine over person, and Dispensing of existence. The book explores the thematic pattern of death and rebirth, accompanied by feelings of guilt, that characterizes the process of thought reform and discusses its broader implications for the study of extremism and totalism.
Moral Man and Immoral Society
Reinhold Niebuhr
My Bright Abyss
Chris Wyman
The Prophetic Imagination
None
Walter Brueggemann
Walter Brueggemann's "The Prophetic Imagination" is a highly influential work in biblical studies and theology. It explores the nature of prophecy in the Old Testament and its relevance to contemporary society. Brueggemann argues that the prophetic tradition is not merely about predicting the future but about critiquing power structures and advocating for justice. He emphasizes the importance of a prophetic imagination that challenges complacency and calls for social transformation. The book has had a profound impact on theological discourse, shaping how scholars and theologians understand the role of the prophet in society. It continues to be widely read and studied for its insightful analysis of the prophetic tradition and its enduring relevance to contemporary issues.
Glittering Vices
Glittering Vices
Rebecca DeYoung
Renowned theologian Walter Brueggemann passed away in June 2025 at the age of 92. In this special retrospective episode of No Small Endeavor, we celebrate his remarkable life and legacy. Drawing from memorable conversations and insightful lectures, we revisit Brueggemann’s piercing critique of what he called the "totalism of market ideology"—the pervasive cultural force shaping American thought and suppressing dissenting voices. With characteristic wisdom, clarity, and wit, Brueggemann challenges us to reject narratives of scarcity, fear, and commodification, inviting us instead into the hopeful vision he famously described as the "prophetic imagination." Listen as he shares personal stories, intellectual turning points, and profound reflections on the power and urgency of truth-telling, both in pulpits and pews.
You can get the unabridged version for this episode in NSE+. Click here to join NSE+ if you're not already a member.
Great Feeling Studios, the team behind No Small Endeavor and other award-winning podcasts, helps nonprofits and brands tell stories that inspire action. Start your podcast at helpmemakeapodcast.com.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: Tokens Media, LLC is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising…
Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp 
