Moving Through Impasse
Moving Through Impasse
Project Summary
Moving Through Impasse is a book in progress that uses the texts of John of the Cross (sixteenth century spiritual guide and reformer) and Judith Butler (contemporary critical theorist and activist) to theorize transformation at the nexus of self and society. It focuses on the dynamics of desire, virtue, and power to address rationalist alienation in relationships to self, others, and ideals. Healing this alienation enables embodied, embedded practical wisdom, which can move people through seemingly impossible constraints. The book aims to support survival and flourishing amidst dysfunctional religion and politics.
Approach
Interdisciplinary combination of theology and spirituality; socio-political critical theory; affect theory; and conflict theory.
Why conduct this research?
Moving Through Impasse was inspired by dissatisfaction with two kinds of theologies and ethical theories: those that recount inspirational stories of change without analyzing the means through which change took place, and those that dictate ways of being and doing without accounting for human diversity. The book offers a theory for intrapersonal praxis that acknowledges the risks of change and helps people to live out their values and beliefs through difficult circumstances as distinct, reflective subjects.
This book is for people striving for sanity, justice, and peace in the midst of alienation, oppression, and violence. I am writing with a wide range of scholars in mind: theologians, critical theorists, philosophers, psychologists, and scholars of religion, spirituality, politics, and peace studies. I am also writing with a wide range of professionals and activists in mind: conflict and peace workers, humanitarians, social workers, chaplains, community organizers, educators, and religious leaders.