America is very divided politically. I believe this is different from the cultural divisions of worldviews.  A version of the Christian worldview used to be the dominant worldview in America. Today, prevalent in America, there are several variations of the critical theory worldview (with expressive individualism mixed in).  And today both political liberals and conservatives use the critical theory framework to promote their agendas.

Critical theory states that there are unfair oppressive structures in society, and thus there are people being oppressed or in other words victims.  Critical theory states these various forms of oppression are what is wrong in the world and its goal is to liberate us from the oppression.  Some of the more common variations of critical theory are critical race theory, feminism, queer theory, and postcolonialism.  You can especially see critical theory in action with the agendas found in the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Movement.  This has been part of a big push by the political liberals. 

But the political conservatives use the same critical theory framework.  The oppressive structures are instead the mainstream media, the deep state government, and other concerns, like voting. So the conservatives see different structures that are oppressing America and making us victims of the current power structures. Donald Trump is big in promoting the oppressive nature of these so-called liberal power structures, and in this current election cycle with his legal troubles he is especially promoting the idea that he is the victim and that he is taking the “attacks” for us. I believe this critical theory framework is one of the main reasons he has been able to resonate with so many voters because critical theory is already embedded in today’s culture.

“Wait, wait”, you say, “there is some truth in what they say”.  Yes, there is some truth found in both the liberal and conservative statements.  But note that every good lie has a kernel of truth.  I believe the framework of critical theory twists the truth and makes it divisive. It ends up being less than the whole truth.

You need to be aware that critical theory’s way of thinking in terms of oppression is the dominant way of thinking in today’s culture. You still need to acknowledge the truth found in the twisted statements, but only the truth.  You especially need to avoid using the critical theory framework.  It is divisive. It is not an us versus them (the enemy and the oppressor) situation.  There is really only one enemy.  His name is Satan.

The Christian asks how I can help and make the situation better. The Christian realizes that it is not an us versus them situation, because we are all sinners in need of a Savior.  We need to, as much as possible, work together and not be divisive. We are to be generous, kind, and gracious in our speech.  We do not lie, but we speak the truth in love.  We do everything from an attitude of love, wanting the best for the other person. The Christian Faith is about reconciliation and forgiveness, first with God, but also with our fellow human beings.  Critical theory is about justice and fairness, whereas Christianity has justice with mercy.  Relationships cannot be restored with only justice.  Mercy and forgiveness is needed to end the divisions and restore healthy relationships.

I believe the political dysfunction in Congress and throughout American politics is due in part to critical theory thinking.  Avoid it!