Public Theology and Political Polarization: Environmental Policy

The purpose of this article is to explore the impact of public theology on potentially polarizing political views. Specifically, the historical and contemporary interpretations of the Lynn White Thesis (1966) are examined as well as the practical implications for developing environmental policies that align with a biblical worldview. The authors propose the application of multiple paradigms to the study of religiosity and environmental activism as a way of addressing the complexity and diversity of various viewpoints. Understanding the multiple ways Jesus operated in an equally contentious and polarized society creates a path forward for churches. By rejecting the supposition that all Christians adhere to a model of dominionism that has been historically equated with exploitation, as theorized by White, other people of faith who differ in their understanding can be included in the conversation as prescribed by the tenets of public theology. This approach enables Christian leaders to resolve differences and contribute to the process of spiritual transformation and ecological renewal.