Reconciliation

In this book, which emerges from the Cambridge Hulsean Lectures for 2002, one of the world's leading authorities on theology and politics offers a compelling account of the theological basis for, and manifestations of, hope for reconciliation. In a world torn apart by conflict, and now engaged in a 'war on terror', reconciliation is a theme that demands constant consideration in ways that relate to the context in which we live. For Christians, it is the heart of the gospel. Yet reconciliation remains an elusive notion. Its meaning seems obvious to us -- that is, until we get into serious discussion with those alienated from us. De Gruchy is wary of complacent and false notions of forgiveness, and his argument is informed at bottom by the conviction that reconciliation involves the restoration of justice -- whether that has to do with our justification by God, the renewal of inter-personal relationships, or the transformation of society. The discussion throughout is remarkably rich and creatively inter-disciplinary, and has considerable relevance to conversations in theology, social and political science, social theory, jurisprudence, and beyond.Read less