Colonialism, Han, and the Transformative Spirit

Globalism, colonialism, and consumerism have caused unjust suffering (han), for the earth's exploited peoples and the exploited lands. To reverse this tragedy, we need to work for a safer, sustainable planet and renew our inspiration from God as the transforming Spirit who gives, sustains and empowers life to all.

"This is a wake-up call to change and reimagine our theology, our views of the environment and one another, and our very life styles as greedy consumers of a capitalist society if we are to avoid a catastrophe we are about to bring on ourselves by greed, domination, and exploitation. Kim, one of the most prolific and insightful members of a new generation of Asian American theologians, has issued a plea to all in this lucid, moving synthesis of political economy, theology, and spirituality." - Anselm K. Min, Maguire Distinguished Professor of Religion, Claremont Graduate University, USA

"Is Kim's a prophetic voice crying out in the wilderness where East meets West, conservatives meet progressivists, and the rich meet the poor? If her book is ignored will it be because the prophets of late modernity are unwelcome in their hometown, which is our globalizing world? Read this book & decide for yourself." - Amos Yong, J. Rodman Williams Professor of Theology, Regent University School of Divinity, Virginia Beach, Virginia

"Kim's concise book is a valuable contribution to the literature on theology and globalization. Her astute socio-cultural analysis of colonialism, globalization, and consumerism is followed by an engaging theological response. Kim perceptively draws on the Asian concept of han to illumine the pain and suffering of people and the earth, and eloquently reimagines the erotic power of the Spirit to transform our lives and rebuild the earth." - Pamela K. Brubaker, Professor Emerita of Religion, California Lutheran University, USA, Author, Globalization at What Price?

'Grace Ji-Sun Kim is concerned that fair-minded Christians, often unaware of their damaging lifestyles, are colluding with the postcolonial globalized world, bloated with consumption and injustices. Kim brings to light new and insidious forms of sin and suffering - han together with her deep appreciation for the Spirit who gives, sustains, empowers and transform lives. With theological strength, Kim weaves Christian insights, traditions, and liberation theologies into an inspiring vision that offers a new perspective for our lives, our spiritual goals, and the planet's life community. This book will motivate and embolden Christians to live for a viable and just future for all people and the planet.' - Heather Eaton, Full Professor, Saint Paul University, Canada; Author, Introducing Ecofeminist Theologies

Grace Ji-Sun Kim is an Associate Professor of Theology at Earlham School of Religion, USA. She is the author of The Holy Spirit, Chi, and the Other (Palgrave Macmillan, 2011).