In this episode, I am joined by theologian and ethicist Dr. Joerg Rieger. In the conversation, we explore critiques of religion in the public square, its global influence on right-wing populism, and its decline as an institution amidst growing discontent with modern life. Joerg argues that while religion remains significant, the type of religion is crucial. We delve into how conceptions of God shape communities—whether toward solidarity and justice for the Other or demands for sacrifice. Enjoy this conversation on the future of faith and its implications for society.
Dr. Joerg Rieger is the Distinguished Professor of Theology and the Cal Turner Chancellor’s Chair of Wesleyan Studies at Vanderbilt University and founding director of the Wendland-Cook Program in Religion and Justice. For three decades, he has worked to bring together theology and the struggles for justice and liberation that mark our age. His work addresses relations of theology and public life, reflecting on the misuse of power in religion, politics, and economics. His interest is in movements that bring about change and in the positive contributions of religion and theology. His constructive work in theology draws on a wide range of historical and contemporary traditions, with a concern for manifestations of the divine in the pressures of everyday life.
WATCH THE FIRST SESSION OF OUR UPCOMING CLASS
“The History & Shape of Liberation Theology” - Joerg Rieger
Thursday, January 23rd (10am PT / 1pm ET) via YouTube Livestream & Replay
Suggested Reading - Introduction from "Theology in the Capitalocene: Ecology, Identity, Class, and Solidarity" by Joerg Rieger
Join the New Online Class with Joerg!
Through 12 exclusive interviews with global leaders in liberation theology—including Sarojini Nadar, Anthony G. Reddie, Kwok Pui-lan, Jung Mo Sung, Mitri Raheb, Dwight Hopkins, and more—you’ll gain unique insights into the diverse expressions and cutting edges of liberation theology. Complimenting these conversations, theologians Joerg Rieger and Tripp Fuller will host six interactive live-stream sessions, offering opportunities to unpack complex ideas, ask questions, and connect with a vibrant online community of fellow learners.
Our conversations will explore topics including...
The systemic roots of today’s global challenges and how liberation theologies offer solutions beyond moral critiques.
The distinction between liberal and liberation theologies and what liberation frameworks uniquely contribute.
Insights into how faith sustains long-term commitment to justice and overcomes burnout.
The role of theology in reshaping images of God, humanity, salvation, and solidarity for collective liberation.
Why liberation is not just for marginalized groups but a pressing concern for the global majority.
Strategies for building solidarity across diverse movements and geographies.
Special Livestream on Inauguration Day with Dr. Ryan Burge
Trust, Religion, and a Functioning Democracy with Dr. Ryan Burge
Monday, January 20th (7am PT / 10am ET) via YouTube Livestream
Join Dr. Ryan Burge for an engaging live-streamed conversation on the vital connections between trust, religion, and a functioning democracy. Using his renowned "graphs on religion," Dr. Burge will provide data-driven insights to frame the discussion. Explore how trust within and beyond religious communities impacts democratic systems, the challenges of polarization, and the role faith can play in fostering civic engagement. Tune in for a thought-provoking session filled with visual storytelling and critical analysis. To see the graphs themselves, you can watch the video below or go check them out on his super graph heavy twitter.
Ryan P. Burge is an assistant professor of political science at Eastern Illinois University. Author of numerous journal articles, he is the co-founder of and a frequent contributor to Religion in Public, a forum for scholars of religion and politics to make their work accessible to a general audience. Burge is a pastor in the American Baptist Church.
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