A Liberation Theology of the Brain
Neuroscience, Theology, and Decolonizing Emotions
- Science & Faith
- Publisher: Fortress Press (Augsburg Fortress)
- Published: 2025
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Publisher's Description
Drawing on experiences from the lab, the local congregation, the immigrant rights movement, the university classroom, the global church, and brain science, this book invites readers to discover the transformative possibilities that arise when we recognize that the insights of science and theology can complement and transform each other. Brain science and theology can be powerful partners in God's work of liberating all of us from the internalized structures of oppression that colonize imaginations, imprison emotions, subjugate bodies, and fracture societies. Trained as a scientist, a pastor, and a theologian, Carmelo Santos-Rolón brings together insights from various fields in neuroscience and the cognitive sciences (such as the neuroscience of religious experience, the neuroscience of emotions, the cognitive science of religion, and the neuroscience of decision-making) with data from liberation, postcolonial, decolonial, and Lutheran ecumenical theologies to analyze the spiritual experience of holistic liberation. The result is a theological framework, informed by science, that allows us to appreciate how the Spirit of God is at work "in, with, and under" neurons, bodies, and communities in all their beautiful messiness and complexity. In the tradition of liberation theologies, which insist that action and reflection belong together and must inform each other, this book aims at a theology with dirty hands and worn-out shoes. It is meant for a people who are not just intellectually curious about who God is and how religion affects our brains, but who are eager to join in God's work of bringing healing and hope to a wounded world. Theology and (neuro)science, together, allow us to witness how the Spirit of God is at work deep inside the nooks and crannies of our brains, in the chemistry of our nervous systems, in the emotions that orient our actions, and in the communities that shape our identities. Through tangible means, such as words and rituals, symbols and narratives, sacraments and community, God liberates us for lives of meaning and purpose at the service of the beautiful future that God is bringing into being.
Endorsements (10)
“Praise for A Liberation Theology of the Brain A Liberation Theology of the Brain offers no less than a new worldview, based on science, history, and theology. Yet, lofty as that sounds, Dr. Santos-Rolón presents it with a down-to-earth, conversational tone that is a delight to read and makes it easy to see the relevance to our everyday lives.”
“minds and our hearts. Bold and prophetic, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in the intersection of faith, science, and liberation. It offers a compelling invitation to engage with the future God is shaping both within us and in the world around us.”
“This book is a pioneering work that brings together neuroscience and theology with a decolonial perspective. Its relevance transcends all contexts, making it undeniably significant. The author offers systematic, intellectually sound, embodied, and scientifically anchored wisdom—a rare combination that few thinkers can achieve.”
“For those of us who work in academia and other areas of life with issues of science, theology, and decoloniality, this book is a map to guide us on the incessant journey for integral spirituality. It opens paths to that search and meaningful relationship with the Mystery we are passionate about and that liberates us.”
“A new advance on the frontier of postcolonial liberation theology! Taking direction from discoveries in brain science, Carmelo Santos-Rolón walks us step-by-step through religious experience toward other-centering, reintegrating the self, and authentic transformation. A great stride forward!”
“it informs. It is a must read if one is interested in excellence and a commitment to deeper understanding of the body-mind-brain connection!”
“Thinking beyond the presumed dichotomy between science and religion, A Liberation Theology of the Brain is an invitation to dialogue. Drawing from works of cognitive science and neurology, it offers us a lucid exploration of what science and theology can teach each other about transformation to heal the wounds of the world. Rich and engaging, this book is a valuable contribution to liberation and decolonial theologies.”
“Carmelo Santos-Rolón’s contribution is a fresh and unusual introduction to this area of study. His strong academic background in the area of science and insightful understanding of Christian theology makes his book a valuable introduction to this field. His valuable reflection in considering this field also lies in the clarity and inviting nature of his approach. His use of short stories to engage the reader in a complex analysis of the complicated, challenging, but fruitful nature of the dialogue among neuroscience, Christian theology, and decolonial approaches to knowledge is not just exciting, but also enlightening. This first effort in socializing to a broader audience his splendid experience in research, shrewd reflection, and ministerial practice promises a productive contribution in the years to come.”
“This wonderful book leads us into the neuroscience of emotions, opening up the apostle Paul’s invitation to “be transformed by the renewing of the mind.” Weaving together the best of brain science with liberation theology and sacraments, Santos-Rolón shows how the power of God’s Spirit can liberate us for healing wounds of colonization and slavery. The mind is a storyteller, a creator of worlds. This book will transform your mind. It is a joy to read.”
“that resist preconceptions of both scientists and theologians. His book is a bit iconoclastic and asks us to embrace liberation from these confusions and errors. He has given us a readable, accessible, and intelligible way to begin that journey.”
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