Back to Search Start Over

Gott im Selfie: Systematisch-theologische Gegenwartserkundungen im Spannungsfeld von Verkündigung und (digitaler) Selbstdarstellung.

Authors :
Tetzlaff, Karl
Source :
Neue Zeitschrift für Systematische Theologie und Religionsphilosophie. Mar2023, Vol. 65 Issue 1, p55-75. 21p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

This text examines the relationship between self-presentation and proclamation through the practice of taking selfies. It argues that the spread of selfies on social media is a religiously grounded endeavor that expresses a longing for an eternal present and an awareness of the unimaginable dimension of the individual self. The text suggests that selfies themselves can be seen as a form of proclamation and that the accusation of narcissism towards religious self-presentation practices should be debunked in theology. The author argues that selfies reflect a need for an eternal present and an acknowledgment of the unimaginable dimension of the individual self. These needs can also be relevant in religious contexts. The author refers to a column in which a literary scholar discusses the philosophy of selfies and argues that selfies offer a way to suspend time and capture the significance of the moment. The author concludes by stating that self-presentation in sermons and selfies can have religious aspects. The text addresses the religious dimensions of selfie culture and argues that they should not be hastily dismissed as narcissistic. The desire to freeze time and create a lasting presence can be interpreted as an expression of a longing for permanence and meaning. However, the practice of taking selfies can also lead to an empty pursuit of more and better self-images. The text highlights the religious significance of self-presentation and argues that performative actions in the church or during worship serve a similar function as selfies: they enable communication and affirmation of religious consciousness. The text explores the topic of self-presentation and role presentation on social media, particularly in relation to selfies. It points out that self-presentation has long existed in everyday life and that social media has amplified this practice. It emphasizes that self-presentation is not only aimed at social recognition but also serves as a means to protect or conceal one's own self. It notes that self-presentation on social media offers both the opportunity for visibility and recognition, but also the risk of self-discrediting. The text delves into the significance of selfies and their connection to religion. It argues that selfies are not just narcissistic self-presentations but also express a longing for an eternal present and an acknowledgment of the invisible dimension of the individual self. The practice of taking selfies is seen as a way to cope with the challenges of modern society. The text suggests that the church and theology should address these needs and incorporate them into their proclamation work instead of distancing themselves from selfie culture. It argues that a theology that responds to the experiences and needs of individuals is necessary to convey the divine word. [Extracted from the article]

Details

Language :
German
ISSN :
00283517
Volume :
65
Issue :
1
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Neue Zeitschrift für Systematische Theologie und Religionsphilosophie
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
162915255
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1515/nzsth-2023-0012