Critical Theory

I think the insights provided by critical theory are crucial to the work of people of faith, perhaps especially those in social locations similar to my own (relatively privileged).  Some of these insights are difficult for me to see on the surface of my daily life.  I think critique has to be a continuing part of every aspect of our life if we are to see and address the needs of the world and do so in ways that are effective.  Cultural critique is perhaps one of the most important, since I think we are often blind to our cultural lenses in ways that we are not blind to other lenses (maybe because our culture/s doesn't necessarily have physical indicators).  When theology is not subjected to these kinds of critique, it operates within a closed system of "the text" (at least in my experience), which may or may not result in theologies which speak to the real needs of the world and its people.