Aristide : A Theological and Political Introduction

Aristide: A Theological and Political Introduction is an engaging biography of Jean-Bertrand Aristide that examines his intellectual life, theological ideas, and political vision. The book also explores how his theology has influenced his politics of solidarity and relationality and his social activism on behalf of the working class and the poor in Haiti, and it considers the implications of his ideas for Christian ethics and engagement in society and the democratic life. The book seeks to answer three questions: What is the relationship between theology, ethics, and social activism and transformation in the writings of Aristide? What is the relationship between (political) theology and defensive violence in Aristide’s thought in the struggle for democracy and human rights in Haiti? Or can a theology of peace and a theology of bellicosity and violence coexist? Celucien L. Joseph also considers Aristide’s efforts to foster democratic change, development, and human flourishing in the context of Haitian society.