THE NATURE OF INTERCULTURALITY IN DEVELOPMENT: A THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE OF RELATIONALITY

Abstract

This article argues that Modernization as a development construct has ignored indigenous culture to a large extend within its paradigm of sustained economic growth. This multi-cultured globalized world with its dominant (western) monoculture of modernization has as cost to the developing world the continued dependency of the have-nots on the haves. Theology values development, as long as it is holistic and people-centered for it then speaks of a cultural fit, which in turn reflects respect for human dignity and self-worth. However, even culture has certain coerciveness. Hence, the relation between theology and culture will always exhibit a dialectical tension. The author argues for an epistemology of transformation, which is not posed as an alternative development strategy but as a Christian framework for looking at human and social change. A theology of transformation approach to development is better designed to develop an intercultural disposition energized by the kingdom values of God. The author is of the opinion that the best characteristic of Transformational Development Theology is its sense of hospitality – in that it is a theology of generosity, which poses a challenge as much as it requires a willingness to embrace the other, which is truly an approach of interculturality.