 |
 |
|
|
 |
 |
 The (Magic) Kingdom Of GodChristianity And Global Culture Industriesby Michael Budde Sep 10, 1998
DescriptionIn The (Magic) Kingdom of God, Michael Budde offers a multidisciplinary analysis of the “global culture industries”—increasingly powerful, centralized corporate conglomerates in television, advertising, marketing, movies, and the like—and their impact on Christian churches in industrialized countries. Utilizing ideas from contemporary and classical schools of political economy, the author explains why the study of global culture industries is essential for understanding the current era of global capitalism. In suggesting that the cultural ecology shaped by these industries undermines many of the primary processes and structures through which people become committed Christians, Budde offers a novel utilization of linguistic-based theories of religious formation. Responses by churches to the new situation—more religious education or attempts to use the global culture industries for Christian purposes—are explored and found lacking. For the subversive praxis of Jesus of Nazareth to endure in the cultural ecology of postmodernism, Budde argues, churches must come to embrace their role as radical and countercultural alternative communities in which lay formation becomes a central preoccupation. Reviews”With a formidable grasp of both theology and neo-Marxist theory, Budde sketches the political economy of culture, demonstrates its corrosive impact on spiritual life…and suggests forms of resistance.” ”Budde has made a magnificent contribution to discussions that are really only getting started, and for this we should be grateful.” ”…a brief but convincing book that is must-reading for anyone interested in how the contemporary church might engage in the critical task of Christian formation.” “This highly original book covers several academic disciplines to make the argument that Christian life is difficult to foster and maintain in the world of modern capitalism.… Although Budde is especially interested in Christianity, this book will be of interest to people in many fields.” “This stunning exposition on the ‘construction of consumption’ shows how and why Mickey Mouse now more powerfully influences our world than does Jesus Christ. It is at once a tour de force of political and cultural studies and a stirring sketchbook, pointing the way to radical, church-centered discipleship.” “Budde’s work falls into the category of liberation theology—accessible and recommended to students of culture and citizen activists.” Selling TerritoryWorld |
|
 |
