The Evangelical Imagination with Karen Swallow Prior
Dec 13, 2023
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Karen Swallow Prior, author of The Evangelical Imagination, discusses the role of imagination in shaping perceptions and relationships within the Christian community. She explores generational influences, challenges stereotypes in literature, and calls for a reexamination of evangelical traditions to promote unity and understanding.
Imagination shapes beliefs subconsciously through social imaginaries, reflecting community influences.
Cultural encounters challenge ingrained assumptions, promoting self-reflection and diverse perspectives for richer imagination.
Deep dives
The Power of Imagination and Social Imaginary
Imagination is a foundational human ability essential for creating images in our minds, shaping our thoughts and actions. Dr. Karen Swallow-Pryer discusses the concept of a social imaginary, a collective pool of images, stories, and myths that shape communities. Contrary to worldview, social imaginary influences us subconsciously and drives our actions based on underlying assumptions.
Longing, Imagination, and Community Development
Longings vary between externally influenced desires and inherent human yearnings. Dr. Pryer highlights the impact of community in shaping individual imaginations. Surrounding ourselves with beauty and diverse perspectives nurtures a rich imagination. She exemplifies how encounters with different cultures prompt self-reflection and challenge ingrained assumptions.
Addressing Systemic Racism and Humility in Change
Reflecting on historical examples like 'The White Man's Burden,' Dr. Pryer discusses the inheritance of societal views and biases. She emphasizes the importance of humility in acknowledging personal and cultural influences, especially concerning systemic racism. Recognizing systemic flaws and embracing change can lead to a more unified and empathetic society.
Closing Prayer for Unity and Transformation
The episode concludes with a prayer for self-examination, repentance, and reconciliation. Dr. Pryer and the host pray for a deeper understanding of biases, the pursuit of racial justice, and the transformative power of faith. The prayer seeks God's guidance in breaking down walls of division and fostering love, humility, and unity among individuals and communities.
It was an honor to be joined by Dr. Karen Swallow Prior, author of the new book The Evangelical Imagination: How Stories, Images, & Metaphors Created a Culture in Crisis. Dr. Prior has keen insight into the role our imaginations play in creating assumptions about ourselves and those around us. She shares how the Evangelical imagination was created within our community and how it has changed over time. We hope you are encouraged to think more deeply about the assumptions we all carry about our neighbors, and hope you join us in praying for a more redeemed imagination for all of us.
LINKS & SHOW NOTES:
This UWP Podcast Episode was produced by Josh Deng with editing by Roshane Ricketts.
To order Dr. Prior's excellent new book, click here.
To find more information on her substack newsletter, click here.
To learn more about United? We Pray, follow us on Instagram and keep exploring our website. Please consider rating the podcast on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe using your favorite podcast client to hear more!
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