Context and Jeremiah Wright

May 1, 2008

In the face of so many people claiming Wright’s recent media appearances are a tour of vanity by a deranged, self-serving individual, Sara Robinson provides some much needed context on liberal Christianity and Liberation Theology vs. the Prosperity Gospel.

And here’s where Jeremiah Wright comes into the story. According to Posner, Wright has been a visible and articulate critic of the GOP’s new pet theology over the years — one of a noisy clutch of ministers who’ve made no bones about the mischief inherent in this new theology. He’s also a respected and insightful proponent of black liberation theology, holding King’s torch high in the face of unscrupulous preachers who think they’re helping poor people by cajoling them to vote away their safety net and toss their government checks in the offering plate.

In a just world this issue would be a non-issue as far as as the Presidential campaign is concerned. But our discussion of Wright is a test of our ability to see through the media narrative (”Wright is a bigoted anti-American flake!) and actually respond to the content of what Wright says.

And as far as the “vanity” charge is concerned, please give it a rest. The man is a successful pastor of a sizable church and has been for years. He and his congregation have been condemned as total nutjobs by people who not only tolerate Pat Robertson but put him on television regularly. Wright’s job is a mix of political activism, cultural criticism and public speaking. What do you expect him to do in these circumstances, keep his trap shut? He’d have to have another career, like network administrator or government regulator.

(See also: Dave Neiwart)

Posted in Politics