From Critical Theory to Critical Political Theology

The Author: Rudolf J. Siebert was born in Frankfurt, Germany. He studied history, philology, philosophy, sociology and theology at the University of Frankfurt, the University of Mainz, the University of Münster and the Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. Siebert has taught, lectured and published widely in Western and Eastern Europe, the United States and Canada. He is professor of religion and society and director of the Center for Humanistic Future Studies at Western Michigan University, and director of an international course on the «Future of Religion» in the IUC, Dubrovnik, Croatia. His previous major work is The Critical Theory of Religion: Frankfurt School.

«Siebert's book is first of all the most lucid introduction I know of to Helmut Peukert's communicative political theology. But far more than this, it is a new and brilliantly creative attempt to grapple with the theodicy problem. Beginning in the narrative mode, Siebert approaches the problem from within the abyss of human suffering in both its personal and social dimensions. Turning then to the discursive mode, he surveys the entire range of contemporary thinking on the theodicy problem. Using Peukert as a foundation, and synthesizing the narrative and discursive modes, Siebert succeeds in transposing the entire problem into a new key. And for this, we all stand in his debt.» (Denis R. Janz, Loyola University)«This book is a beautiful example of how religion and one particular human life can dialectically blend into one. For 'religion is not in doctrines, in dogmas, nor in intellectual argumentation; it is being and becoming,' as has been stated very deeply by S. Vivekananda. The book is a real theodicy; in spite of deep personal tragedy it is full of hope and nobility.» (Darko Göttlicher, Yugoslav Academy of Science and Art)«A remarkable achievement and a remarkable testimony to the potential depths of a loving human relationship as a conduit to faith!... His rendering of the theodicy problem is fresh and challenging, calling us to both deeper reflection and more commited action in solidarity with suffering humanity.» (Bernard Hammond, King's College, The University of Western Ontario).