Table of Contents

Introduction

I. The Identity of Liberation Theology

A. Basic Principles

1. Christians must stand with the poor and oppressed of the earth.

2. The cause of all poverty, oppression and injustice in the world is capitalism.

3. Christians must work to replace capitalism with socialism.

B. Principal Representatives

II. The Roots of Liberation Theology

A. Philosophical Roots

B. Theological Roots

III. The Problems of Liberation Theology

A. Hermeneutical Problems

B. Theological Problems

C. Eschatological Problems

D. Political Problems

E. Philosophical Problems

IV. The Fruit of Liberation Theology in South Africa

V. The Fruit of Liberation Theology in Nicaragua

VI. The Criticisms of “Capitalism” by Liberation Theology Answered

First charge: Capitalism contributes to the misery of the working classes.

Second charge: Capitalism exploits, cheats and robs the working classes through monopolies.

Third charge: Because of capitalism, the gap between rich and poor in Latin America is widening, with the poor getting poorer.

Fourth charge: Capitalism of the West is the cause of third world poverty.

Fifth charge: Capitalism of the West has exploited Latin America by making her dependent on the West.

Conclusion

Endnotes