From Black Theology and Black Power to Afrocentric Theology and Hip Hop Power: An Extension and Socio-re-theological Conceptualization of Cone's Theology in Conversation with the Hip Hop Generation

Abstract

In this paper Dr James H. Cone's Black Theology and Black Power is put in conversation with two hip hop socio-theologians, Lauryn Hill and Talib Kweli. The next move in Black Theology will be led by the hip hop generation and this move will be towards an Afrocentric/African centered theology. The method and socio-theological conditions that surrounded Dr Cone's work are compared and contrasted with the present state of affairs in the African-American community. Dr Cone was writing after the assasinations of Malcolm X and Dr Martin L. King Jr. Hip hop is writing after the election of President Barrack Obama. Hip hop is raising theological questions. As one generation celebrates the realization of a dream, hip hop is rapping about a nightmare. The theological tension between Cone's generation, my generation, and hip hop are also explored.