Praxis and Social Change: Module 4

• LCFAITH: Module 4 discusses the practical/performative dimension of faith.

Praxis and Social Change

• Praxis is described as action-oriented toward changing society.
• Karl Marx defined praxis as an activity where individuals transform their historical world and themselves.
• Avery Dulles described it as activities directed to overcome alienations in society.
• Gustavo Gutierrez characterized faith as a historical praxis of liberation, requiring a commitment to liberation.

See Judge Act

• The "See, Judge, Act" framework is examined in detail.

Stage of Seeing: Social Analysis

• Social analysis requires bias, necessitating taking sides.
• Taking the side of the oppressed is considered right and proper
• Siding against oppressors sounds divisive and threatening.
• Refusing to take sides favors those in power.
• Some argue taking sides can stir up trouble or create enemies.
• A Christian perspective involves loving enemies rather than having none.
• Theology must start “where the pain is” according to Frederick Herzog.
• Taking the perspective of the poor/oppressed reveals a world of conflict.

Critical Awareness

• People should be critical and aware of oppressive structures that are often hard to notice.
• It is vital to address systemic issues preventing people from improving their circumstances, exemplified by removing "NO FISHING" signs to enable fishing.
• Actions should focus on "Making the unnoticed noticed".

Stage of Judging/Discerning: Reflection

• Understanding the situation requires looking through the lens of the Scriptures and Catholic Social Teaching (CST).
• Scriptures should be read for the same theme, not the same story.
• Analyze the bible in the light of poverty to find the solution within it
• This helps to know how Jesus wanted to liberate people living in poverty
• CST principles should be applied to social issues

CST Principles

• Respect for Human Dignity: Every person is made in God's image, deserving of loving respect regardless of background.
• Universal Destination of Goods: Creation is for all people.
• Common Good: The fruits of the earth belong to everyone, with social conditions allowing communal and individual fulfillment.
• Solidarity: Recognizing interconnectedness, challenging Christians to treat all neighbors as themselves.
• Subsidiarity: Empowering decision-making at the most appropriate level within communities.
• Option for the Poor: Prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable.
• Stewardship and Care for Creation: Protecting people and the planet by using earth's resources responsibly.

Stage of Acting: Commitment to Action

• Proposed actions include:
• Respecting people's process.
• The liberating power of education.
• Empowerment of leaders.
• Mobilization and collective action.
• Networking and collaboration.
• Prayer and celebration.

"See, Judge, Act" Cycle in Action

• SEE step uses social analysis with data and analysis from Economics.
• JUDGE step involves reflection on Bible passages
• The CST principles are applicable in this stage, determining what Bible passages to use.
• ACT focuses on planning action to solve or challenge the evil situation.