Graven Ideologies: Nietzsche, Derrida & Marion on Modern Idolatry
"Graven Ideologiesmeets a long-standing demand for a presentation of the theological significance of the work of Nietzsche, Derrida, Levinas and Marion in American English, that is, in a language we can all understand. It raises the level of discussion of these provocative continental thinkers by showing the positive import of their critique of metaphysics--which is mistakenly assumed to be something destructive--as a critique of idolatry that is an essential ingredient in any biblical view. By doing all this in a lively and readable prose, in illuminating comparisons and contrasts, Benson has made a significant contribution to the growing American discussion of theology from a continental perspective." (John D. Caputo, David R. Cook Professor of Philosophy, Villanova University)"This succinct little book gives us an excellent critique of recent discussions of idolatry. Benson is both fair to Levinas and Marion and astutely perceptive concerning the questions which they fail to raise." (John Milbank, Frances Myers Ball Professor of Philosophical Theology, University of Virginia)"Graven Ideologiesis a clear and coherent exposition of the importance of the figures of Nietzsche, Marion and Derrida to Christian consciousness. It will go a long way not only toward correcting the reductive misreadings of these works by many theologians but toward the strengthening of Christian intellectual life in its ongoing dialogue with philosophy." (Cleo Kearns, Visiting Fellow at the Center for the Study of Religion, Princeton University)"Rooted in a deep biblical faith that is as reflective as it is committed, informed by a thorough study of the authors discussed, and written with an inviting and accessible lucidity, this volume gives us a splendid guide to the thought of three major postmodern thinkers." (Merold Westphal, Distinguished Professor of Philosophy, Fordham University)"The difficult but very important thought material dealt with by Bruce Benson in this book has had and will continue to have a profound effect upon the understanding and reception of the gospel of Christ today. Intellectual life is strongly influenced by it--and that includes the thought life of Christians as well as non-Christians. I especially encourage those in positions of Christian leadership to study it carefully, and above all those who expect to be helpful to young people now entering higher education or the professions.  You are not likely to find a better guide than Benson." (Dallas Willard, Professor of Philosophy, University of Southern California)