This is an interpretation of Christian doctrine that believes the Christian faith should primarily be a tool to liberate oppressed people, and that sin is manifested in unjust social structures.
The name comes from a 1971 book entitled A Theology of Liberation by Peruvian priest Gustavo Gutiérrez. He felt that European approaches to Christianity did not apply to the poverty and oppression he witnessed in Latin America, and that Christians should do more to help oppressed people in this world.
Liberation theology has several branches:
- Black theology
- Feminist theology
- Palestinian liberation theology
Critics of liberation theology see it as a thinly masked version of Marxism or Socialism which is primarily concerned with the redistribution of wealth and power. They often also object to its focus on the present, material world, rather than salvation.
The line between politics and religion is blurry when discussing liberation theology. It can be difficult to determine if someone is endorsing it or condemning it based on Christian doctrine or political preference. Both side of the argument make claims to both approaches.