Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
The Kingdom of God A Reality: Applied Proletarian Gospel
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
History
Minor
East Asian Studies
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Much focus is laid in the modern era on the effects of the American “social gospel” in the development of modern liberalism, with regards to reform and other aspects. A similar emphasis is often laid on the use of Christianity and Christian values in the development of the “Christian Right” and American conservatism. Bypassing these mainstream trends, there is a third stream of American Christianity that has been utilized as a tool for the expression of left-wing political radicalism and liberation, with several prominent figures openly affiliated with or fellow travelers of the Communist Party. Using the lives, writings, and activities of Rev. Harry F. Ward, Rev. Claude C. Williams, Bishop William Montgomery Brown, and other radical Christian activists as subjects, it is possible to reach an understanding of the historical synthesis of the seemingly contradictory worldviews and principles inherent to Christianity and Marxism.
Spring Scholars Week 2023 Event
Honors College Senior Thesis Presentations
The Kingdom of God A Reality: Applied Proletarian Gospel
Much focus is laid in the modern era on the effects of the American “social gospel” in the development of modern liberalism, with regards to reform and other aspects. A similar emphasis is often laid on the use of Christianity and Christian values in the development of the “Christian Right” and American conservatism. Bypassing these mainstream trends, there is a third stream of American Christianity that has been utilized as a tool for the expression of left-wing political radicalism and liberation, with several prominent figures openly affiliated with or fellow travelers of the Communist Party. Using the lives, writings, and activities of Rev. Harry F. Ward, Rev. Claude C. Williams, Bishop William Montgomery Brown, and other radical Christian activists as subjects, it is possible to reach an understanding of the historical synthesis of the seemingly contradictory worldviews and principles inherent to Christianity and Marxism.