Towards a Human-Centric Paradigm | Valuing People Above Profit

The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for the caged bird
sings of freedom.

Maya Angelou

The critique of reductionism, the advocacy for a broader understanding of human flourishing, the emphasis on moral and ethical considerations, and the value placed on community and relationships by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology, which coalesce to present a powerful vision for a more just and flourishing society.

Introduction

In theology and social justice, two powerful perspectives emerge when critiquing the reduction of human beings to mere economic agents: Radical Orthodox Christianity and Liberation Theology.

These frameworks offer valuable insights and principles that challenge the notion of reducing human worth to economic productivity.

This article will delve into the parallels between Radical Orthodox Christianity and Liberation Theology, focusing specifically on their shared concerns regarding reducing individuals to economic agents.

By examining these parallels, we aim to deepen our understanding of the inherent dignity and worth of every human being beyond economic considerations and explore the implications for creating a more just and compassionate society.

Critique of Reductionism:

The critique of reductionism articulated by both radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology highlights the concern that reducing human beings to their economic value or productivity overlooks their intrinsic worth and dignity as individuals. This reductionist perspective tends to prioritize material aspects and economic contributions while neglecting other fundamental aspects of human existence.

Both perspectives emphasize that human beings possess inherent worth and dignity that cannot be solely measured by economic metrics. They argue that each person has value and significance regardless of their economic status or productivity. This recognition of human worth goes beyond material possessions or economic achievements and encompasses the spiritual, moral, and relational dimensions of individuals.

Liberation Theology particularly emphasizes the importance of recognizing the dignity of every human being, especially those who are marginalized or oppressed by economic systems. It underscores the need to prioritize the well-being and liberation of all individuals, irrespective of their economic contributions. Liberation Theology challenges societal structures that perpetuate poverty, inequality, and exploitation, seeking to uplift the oppressed and restore their dignity.

By critiquing reductionism, both perspectives call for a more comprehensive understanding of human nature and value. They argue that humans are complex beings with multifaceted identities and dimensions extending beyond economic considerations. This includes the spiritual aspect, recognizing the quest for meaning and purpose, moral considerations shaping ethical choices and behaviour, and relational aspects emphasising the significance of human connections and community.

The critique of reductionism by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology stresses the need to recognize every individual’s intrinsic worth and dignity beyond their economic contributions. It underscores the spiritual, moral, and relational dimensions contributing to human flourishing. Both perspectives advocate for a more holistic understanding of human beings that moves beyond reductionist perspectives and embraces the richness of human existence.

Broader Understanding of Human Flourishing:

The emphasis on a broader understanding of human flourishing by both radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology reflects the recognition that well-being extends beyond economic considerations and encompasses various dimensions of human life.

These perspectives highlight the significance of recognizing and valuing the communal aspects of human existence. They stress that individual well-being is intimately connected to the well-being of the community as a whole. By emphasizing the communal elements, they advocate for shifting from an individualistic mindset towards a more collective and interconnected approach to human flourishing.

Liberation Theology, in particular, emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing social injustices and uplifting marginalized populations. It recognizes that true human flourishing cannot be achieved in isolation but requires the establishment of just and equitable structures that benefit all members of society. This involves recognizing and challenging systemic inequalities and advocating for the rights and dignity of the oppressed.

Both perspectives call for a transformation of social structures and systems to promote the common good and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to thrive. They challenge the notion that individual well-being can be separated from the well-being of the broader community and emphasize the importance of fostering relationships, solidarity, and social cohesion.

Moreover, a broader understanding of human flourishing acknowledges that individuals have various needs beyond material wealth and economic success. It encompasses spiritual, moral, and emotional dimensions, recognizing the pursuit of meaning, purpose, and ethical values as integral to human well-being. This holistic approach recognizes individuals’ inherent dignity and worth and seeks to create conditions that enable their full development and flourishing in all aspects of life.

The advocacy for a broader understanding of human flourishing by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology underscores the importance of recognizing the communal aspects of human life and the interconnectedness of individual and collective well-being. It calls for solidarity, collective action, and the transformation of social structures to promote justice, equality, and the common good. By embracing a holistic approach to human flourishing, these perspectives highlight the significance of fostering relationships, pursuing spiritual and moral values, and addressing social injustices to create a more just and flourishing society.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

The emphasis on moral and ethical considerations by both radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology reflects their critique of reducing human beings to mere economic agents and highlights the potential negative consequences of such reductionism within economic systems.

Both perspectives argue that when individuals are solely seen as economic agents, the focus on profit maximization and self-interest can overshadow the moral and ethical dimensions that should guide economic systems. By reducing human beings to economic entities, there is a risk of neglecting the well-being and needs of vulnerable populations, perpetuating social inequalities, and reinforcing systemic injustices.

Liberation Theology, in particular, emphasizes the call for economic systems that prioritize social justice, equity, and the needs of the poor and marginalized. It challenges the structures perpetuating poverty, exploitation, and the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few. Instead, it advocates for economic models that are grounded in principles of compassion, solidarity, and the pursuit of the common good.

Both perspectives argue for integrating moral and ethical considerations into economic decision-making. This includes recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual, promoting fair and just distribution of resources, and ensuring that principles of social responsibility and ethical conduct guide economic systems.

Moreover, these perspectives call for a shift away from a narrow focus on individual gain and profit towards a broader understanding of economic well-being that encompasses the overall welfare of society. They advocate for inclusive economic systems that prioritize the needs of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable and marginalized.

The emphasis on moral and ethical considerations by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology highlights the critique of reducing human beings to economic agents and calls for economic systems that prioritize social justice, equity, and the needs of the poor and marginalized. Both perspectives advocate for integrating moral values, compassion, and the pursuit of the common good within economic decision-making. By doing so, they aim to address social inequalities and create economic systems that align with fairness, solidarity, and human dignity principles.

Valuing Community and Relationships:

The emphasis on valuing community and relationships by both radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology underscores the recognition of the profound significance of human connections and the interdependence of individuals within communities.

Both perspectives critique the reductionist view that portrays human beings solely as economic agents, focusing on their individual pursuits and self-interest. They argue that this reductionist perspective tends to overshadow the value of shared responsibility and solidarity, as well as the intrinsic interdependence that exists among individuals within communities.

Liberation Theology particularly emphasizes the importance of building strong communities, fostering relationships, and promoting the common good. It recognizes that human beings are fundamentally social beings, and their well-being is deeply intertwined with the well-being of the community. By fostering relationships and cultivating a sense of interconnectedness, individuals can collectively work towards the betterment of society.

Valuing community and relationships entails recognizing that human flourishing is not solely an individual endeavour but a communal one. It involves fostering empathy, compassion, and cooperation within communities, and acknowledging the shared responsibility for the welfare of all members. Both perspectives advocate for a shift from individualistic mindsets to a mindset that prioritizes the needs and well-being of the community as a whole.

Furthermore, valuing community and relationships involves promoting the common good, which encompasses the welfare and interests of the entire community rather than solely focusing on personal gain. This requires individuals to consider the impact of their actions on others and actively engage in efforts to promote social justice, equity, and inclusivity.

The emphasis on valuing community and relationships by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology highlights the significance of recognizing individuals’ interdependence and shared responsibility within communities. It emphasizes the importance of building strong communities, fostering relationships, and promoting the common good. These perspectives advocate for a more inclusive, compassionate, and socially conscious approach to human existence and flourishing by prioritising community and relationships.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the critique of reductionism, the advocacy for a broader understanding of human flourishing, the emphasis on moral and ethical considerations, and the value placed on community and relationships by radical orthodox theologians and Liberation Theology converge to present a powerful vision for a more just and flourishing society.

These perspectives challenge reductionist views that undermine the intrinsic worth and dignity of individuals, emphasizing the spiritual, moral, and relational dimensions that contribute to human flourishing.

They call for holistic approaches that recognize the interdependence of individuals and the importance of collective well-being.

By integrating moral values, compassion, and the pursuit of the common good within economic systems, they seek to address social inequalities and prioritize the needs of the marginalized.

Valuing community and relationships becomes central, to fostering strong communities and promoting social consciousness.

Ultimately, these perspectives inspire a transformative path toward a society that embraces inclusivity, justice, and human dignity.

Here are some other posts folks have read:

About Rev Lloyd Hobbard-Mitchell

Rev. Lloyd Hobbard-Mitchell, an Englishman deeply connected to Thailand, was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood on 28th May 2023.

In addition to his religious journey, he has worked as an online English teacher and pursued a career as an artist. He has also operated a tour desk business with his wife within international brand hotels.

Lloyd has extensive experience in the voluntary sector, specifically in addressing homelessness and social welfare.

He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and embraces opportunities to meet new people, see new places, explore cultural similarities, and celebrate differences.

Read More

Combining Radical Orthodox and Liberation Theology into a coherent singular theological approach.

Until now, on my journey of reading theology, I have been most influenced by Liberation Theology.
Recently my friend and colleague Fr. Zach Storey suggested I do a ‘deep dive’ into the works of David Bentley Hart, John Milbank and other Radical Orthodox Christian theologians.
I want to know whether there is a way to coalesce these two pillars of Theology into a coherent singular theological approach.

Would you like to know what I am working on now?

CLICK HERE FOR PATTAYA MISSION
CLICK HERE FOR ST GEORGE’S CHURCH
GIVE HERE TO SUPPORT MY WORK