'HERMENEUTICS OF TRANSFORMATION?' A CRITICAL EXPLORATION OF THE MODEL OF SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN BIBLICAL SCHOLARS AND FAITH COMMUNITIES

Abstract

This paper seeks to critically explore the ideological, academic and socio-political implications of the model of social engagement as developed and espoused by Gerald West, almost two decades ago. It will do so through an examination of three focus areas: Motivation, method and representation. First the paper will discuss the rationale behind social engagement. Thereafter, an exploration and interrogation of the method itself (to be found primarily in the contextual bible study) will be undertaken, by asking vital questions concerning the functions and the responsibilities of both the faith communities and the intellectual / academic in such engagements. Thirdly, the paper will seek to question the ways in which communities of faith are subsequently represented in academic discourse. The paper brings the discussion to a close with an appraisal of the three focus areas explored in the paper, by arguing that each of the focus areas examined produce different results in key areas, when viewed at from the perspective of organic intellectuals. By bringing West?s work into dialogue with organic intellectuals who have used similar models, but have done so differently, the paper concludes that collaboration between scholars and the community is a vital one, but that the challenge which remains is for more organic intellectuals to use the opportunities which they have been given through their privileged access to education, to empower those in the community who have afforded them the opportunity.