109: From heroes to villains: The role of iconoclasm with Diana Butler Bass

We delve into the topic of iconoclasm and the conflict it causes in communities as they grapple with troubling figures from their spiritual history. From Confederate statues in Richmond to famous theologians who have committed atrocities, we explore how we evaluate historical figures through multiple lenses and the importance of deep discernment in Christian leadership. Join us for a conversation with scholar and author Diana Butler Bass as we explore the question of when communities need to cancel or reframe historical legacies to reflect on past mistakes and ensure justice.

Diana Butler Bass, Ph.D., is an award-winning author, popular speaker, inspiring preacher, and one of America’s most trusted commentators on religion and contemporary spirituality. She’s written 11 books. Her bylines include The New York Times, the Washington Post, CNN.com, Atlantic.com, USA Today, Huffington Post, Spirituality and Health, Reader’s Digest, Christian Century, and Sojourners. And she’s been featured talking about religion and politics on just about every major news outlet.

In this episode:

(00:00) Introduction

(06:08) Empty Pedestals: The Age of Iconoclasm

(13:08) “The Importance of Reflective Engagement with History”

(15:16) Navigating the Tension Between History and Offense

(18:11) “Examining the Past, Present, and Future Lenses”

(22:02) “Why We Must Consider Future Generations”

(30:18) “The Deep Question Behind Thomas Jefferson’s Statues”

(32:38) “Reframing Public Figures: Jefferson and Washington’s Role”

(35:59) “Controversial theologians raise questions of morality”

(44:45) “Iconoclasm: The Controversial Removal of Statues”

(47:48) “Empty Altars: Searching for a New Spiritual Landscape”

For more episodes of Compass, visit: www.umc.org/compass