A Paradoxical Theology of Biology: Desmond Tutu's Social Ethics in Light of His Sermon at Southwark Cathedral. Issue 1 (5th June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McCarty III, James W.
• Is Part Of: Theology & sexuality. Volume 19:Issue 1(2013)
• Page Start: 89
• Page End: 97
• Publication Date: 2014-06-05
• Subjects: Desmond Tutu -- ubuntu -- queer theology -- liberation theology -- prophetic preaching; Sex -- Religious aspects -- Christianity -- Periodicals; 261.835
• DOI: 10.1179/1355835814Z.00000000024
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1355-8358

Abstract

Abstract : This article examines a sermon in which Desmond Tutu advocates for gay rights in light of his activism against apartheid in South Africa. In doing so it uncovers a paradoxical theology of biology that enables him to advocate universal notions of justice simultaneously with love for particular persons and bodies. This advocacy, however, is susceptible to the critiques of queer theorists and theologians who worry that liberationist frameworks unwittingly reinscribe injustices against a variety of queer persons. The article concludes by raising new questions to be asked about Desmond Tutu's theology, and liberation theologies in general, about the potential of liberationist and prophetic frameworks for achieving social justice. It also raises questions for queer theology about the possibility and political efficacy of queering the act of preaching.