For most of Christian history, theology has been written primarily by men. Beginning in the early 1960s, feminists identified ways traditional theologies omitted, ignored, and vilified women’s experiences, issues, and perspectives. In the past 60 years, feminists have developed a vibrant theological tradition that is essential for a full understanding of Christian theologies. Feminist theologies engage some of the most important and controversial issues of our time, from the roles of women in society to sexuality, abortion, gender identity, and the environment. Feminist Theologies: The Basics aims to:
- Provide historical context for the development of feminist theology
- Examine feminist theological methods
- Share new and emerging feminist voices
- Focus on the feminist concept of intersectionality
- Using the idea of justice to understand feminist theologies.
With definitions of key terms and suggestions for further reading throughout, this book is an ideal starting point for anyone seeking a full introduction to feminist theologies, as well as broader themes in theology, gender, and sexuality.
1. Introduction to Feminist Theologies
2. Feminist Perspectives on the Bible
3. Asian American Feminist Theology
4. Womanist Theologies
5. Ecofeminist Theologies
6. Postcolonial Feminist Theologies
7. Latina Feminist Theologies
8. African Women's/Feminist Theologies
9. Queer Feminist Theologies
10. Feminist Disability Theologies
Epilogue Feminist Theologies: A Path Toward Liberation and Justice
Biography
Susan M. Shaw is Professor Emerita of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Oregon State University, USA, and is the co-author with Grace Ji-Sun Kim of Surviving God: A New Vision of God Through the Eyes of Sexual Abuse Survivors and Intersectional Theology: An Introductory Guide.
Grace Ji-Sun Kim is Professor of Theology at Earlham School of Religion. She is the author of over two dozen books, most recently, Earthbound and When God Became White. Kim is the host of Madang Podcast, which is sponsored by the Christian Century. She blogs on her Substack: Loving Life and has appeared on MSNBC, PBS, and C-Span, and writes for Good Faith Media.
"Feminist Theologies: The Basics is a concise and accessible introduction to feminist theological thought. Shaw and Kim offer an intersectional approach that challenges patriarchal assumptions while centering voices that have been marginalized historically in Christian Theology. This book invites readers into liberatory conversations about faith, justice, and inclusion—making this a vital resource for students, scholars, and those committed to transformative theological reflection."
- Emilie M. Townes, Martin Luther King, Jr. Professor of Religion and Black Studies, Boston University School of Theology
"Feminist Theologies: The Basics is an excellent addition to the Basics series and Shaw and Kim have produced a wonderfully exciting introduction to the subject. They cover a vast amount of material in an accessible manner introducing the reader to the many strands of feminist theology from contexts to continents and begin by explaining why such a discipline was needed. They close this incredible book with words of hope calling us back to the gospel and asking that we join the refiguration of faith that leads to the transformation of societies in which ‘liberation is not a dream but a reality’."
- Lisa Isherwood, Professor of Feminist Liberation Theologies (University of Wales, Trinity St. David)
Following the successful model of their Intersectional Theology: An Introductory Guide, Professors Susan M. Shaw and Grace Ji-Sun Kim focus on theologies emerging from Christian, mostly U.S., feminist roots. This primer introduces new generations of students to the general contours of the field of feminist theology. It includes helpful discussions arising from a variety of sources, especially recently from disability activism, ecofeminism, and African women’s experiences. This book whets the appetite for an even more broadly-based survey of interreligious, global feminist studies in religion. Start with the basics!
- Mary Hunt, Co-Director of Women’s Alliance for Theology, Ethics, and Ritual (WATER)
