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Bigotry Quote by Mary Daly

“Another kind of transcendence myth has been dramatization of human life in terms of conflict and vindication. This focuses upon the situation of oppression and the struggle for liberation. It is a short-circuited transcendence when the struggle against oppression becomes an end in itself, the…” quote by Mary Daly
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““Another kind of transcendence myth has been dramatization of human life in terms of conflict and vindication. This focuses upon the situation of oppression and the struggle for liberation. It is a short-circuited transcendence when the struggle against oppression becomes an end in itself, the focal point of all meaning. There is an inherent contradiction in the idea that those devoted to a cause have found their whole meaning in the struggle, so that the desired victory becomes implicitly an undesirable meaninglessness. Such a truncated vision is one of the pitfalls of theologies of the oppressed. Sometimes black theology, for example that of James Cone, resounds with a cry for vengeance and is fiercely biblical and patriarchal. It transcends religion as a crutch (the separation and return of much old-fashioned Negro spirituality) but tends to settle for being religion as a gun. Tailored to fit only the situation of racial oppression, it inspires a will to vindication but leaves unexplored other dimensions of liberation. It does not get beyond the sexist models internalized by the self and controlling society — models that are at the root of racism and that perpetuate it. The Black God and the Black Messiah apparently are merely the same patriarchs after a pigmentation operation — their behavior unaltered.””

Mary Daly

About This Quote

Source Book: Theology of Liberation, Mary Daly, 1995

The quote critiques how some liberation narratives become fixated on oppression and revenge, turning struggle into an end and neglecting broader dimensions of freedom, often reproducing patriarchal and racist patterns.

In simple terms: Focusing only on oppression can trap movements in endless conflict, ignoring deeper liberation.

Key Takeaway

Avoid reducing liberation to vengeance; seek holistic freedom.

Themes

liberation theology oppression identity justice

Mood

reflective critical hopeful

Type

philosophical theoretical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • social activism
  • faith communities
  • academic discourse
  • policy reform

Key Concepts

critical theory intersectionality patriarchal critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can liberation movements expand beyond opposition?
  • What alternative visions of freedom exist?
A Different Perspective

The emphasis on vindication may reinforce the very hierarchies it opposes.

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