Freedom: Hierarchy or Humanity?

Abstract

“Freedom [in the traditional theological sense] does not issue from the human condition; it is a gift bestowed from above. This freedom demarcates and perpetuates a hierarchical order, not only from God to the world, but even within the world, where humanity is divided into spiritual orders of kings and servants, Thus the locus of this freedom has not been humanity per se. Dignity and worth are held, insofar as they are granted, by a higher authority. Theologically, the higher authority is God; practically, the higher authority has been the hierarchical social structure, reinforced by the sense of divine institution… As liberation movements make gains in society, the new experiences of freedom resulting from this ideology will challenge the traditional forms of freedom's expression.”