Faith and Law New Media and the Future of Religion
Feb 11, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Joseph Capizzi, the first lay Dean of the School of Theology and Religious Studies at the Catholic University of America, and Ross Douthat, New York Times columnist and author of "Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious," explore the impact of new media on theology. They dive into the challenges religious institutions face in a world of individual spirituality and social media, discussing the democratization of theological discourse and the evolving nature of faith in modern society. Their insights reveal opportunities for a potential religious revival.
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Democratization of Theology
- The democratization of theology, particularly on social media, signifies a shift towards newer sources of theological insight.
- This trend challenges the traditional authority of established religious institutions and their hierarchies.
Religious Revival and Authority
- A current religious moment combines impulses towards revival with an evacuation of traditional authority.
- People approach profound religious questions afresh, detached from past theological debates rooted in hierarchical institutions.
Human Need for Authority
- Humans are authority-needing beings who seek it even outside traditional institutions.
- This inherent need explains the shift in authority figures, from religious leaders to celebrities or social media influencers.
