THE RHETORIC OF PUBLIC THEOLOGY: A RHETORICAL ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIAL JUSTICE WING OF THE UNITED STATES CATHOLIC CHURCH (BURKE, BOULDING, VALUES, IMAGE)

STEVEN ROGER GOLDZWIQ, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe, interpret and analyze the "social justice" discourse of the United States Catholic Church as a case study of the rhetoric of "public theology." The central research question shaping this study is: How does contemporary religious discourse use persuasion in trying to shape and influence values on public policy decision-making in the United States? This study outlines historical precedents as well as rhetors, channels, and audiences involved in the attempt to influence the design, implementation and evaluation of public policy. Using a synthesis of rhetorical values theory and the application of an "image analysis" as informed by Kenneth Boulding and Kenneth Burke, it is argued that epideictic discourse forms the base for the deliberative elements found in this discourse. Relying upon primary discursive religious images of "creation," "community," and "covenant," social justice rhetors are combining mythic religious imagery with political ideas to advance a new hierarchy of values seen as leading to a "new vision" for both Church and society. The study outlined a significant structural-organizational network that has both the potential to and is now aiding social justice advocates in this task. Analysis and evaluation of the discourse underlined the existence of a "New Social Knowledge Class" which is practicing a rhetoric of public theology. Public theology can be differentiated from civil religious discourse through four rhetorical tenets--expedient simplicity, existential content, action rituals and quasi-cultural imperatives. This study revealed a number of vexing problems which may preclude social justice rhetors from realizing their goal of values transformation at local, regional, national, and cultural levels. It was concluded that much of the discourse examined seemed targeted primarily to internal church audiences, although each discourse source also claimed to appeal to external audiences.

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject Area

Communication

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