Christianity and the Development of Eco-Justice

• Main Author: Hill, Emily C
• Format: Others
• Published: Scholarship @ Claremont 2016
• Subjects: Christianity; United States; Eco-justice; Environmental Justice; Environmental Studies
• Online Access: http://scholarship.claremont.edu/pomona_theses/142; http://scholarship.claremont.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1151&context=pomona_theses

This thesis investigates the role Christian communities in the United States play in eco-justice work. Eco-justice is the recognition that human rights and environmental rights are indivisible. Christianity had a deep impact on Western culture in Europe during the Medieval, Renaissance, and Enlightenment periods. Evangelizing and carrying out God’s will were used repeatedly as justification for the colonial escapades of European powers. The notion of a Covenant with God permeated American culture and influenced the identity of the nation and of American environmentalism. However, Christian communities were also active in resisting the exploitation of people and the Earth. Today, Christian communities and activists bring resources – both material and moral – to the fight for eco-justice, they provide a space for inclusive organizing, and they practice rituals that encourage an active, transformative hope for the world.