Barker continues in Chapter 2 by exploring the central problems of cultural studies and introducing a "therapeutic redefinition" tactic used to dissolve problems with a "new way of seeing." For example, the potential problems of language can be dissolved by viewing them as "truth[s]," that are, "culturally and historically specific and changeable." An amazing piece of wordplay... but couldn't one use this tactic towards any truth and skew it towards her/his advantage?
That being said, I do agree that studying culture is important. Furthermore, we must embrace our culture and it's idiosyncrasies, in order to be able to engage both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission outlined in the Word of God. So when Barker elaborates that cultural studies engages in the rhetoric of populism, it's an important thought, not only because the populous is who we are called to be disciples to, but it's important to understand the people in an information age that still values a postmodern thought where we both have and require multiple viewpoints or truths by which to interpret a complex heterogeneous human existence.
Basically, we need to listen, interpret, and teach truth in new ways by engaging today's cultural values and lifestyles. Now who's the wordsmith.
Thursday, January 10
Reading: Barker [Problems]
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1 comment:
"So when Barker elaborates that cultural studies engages in the rhetoric of populism, it's an important thought, not only because the populous is who we are called to be disciples to, but it's important to understand the people in an information age that still values a postmodern thought where we both have and require multiple viewpoints or truths by which to interpret a complex heterogeneous human existence."
Right on -- there is much to be learned and so I see this as a very important field for the church to be in.
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