Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2008
Abstract
Because social power is interpersonal, it is exercised in physical space. Edward Hall distinguishes between public, social, personal, and intimate space by the distance that individuals maintain from each other in that space. Soja describes the concept of space as either a geophysical reality, a mental-symbolic reality, or a social reality. Power is a physically perceived, socially-negotiated construct based on mental perceptions of authority and value in a group. Jesus regularly exercised his power in social settings to challenge traditional group norms. One of the norms challenged was the objectification of women in male honour-shame conflicts. In this paper I will define social power as a complex and multifaceted construct exercised in “space.” I will demonstrate Jesus’ use of power to restore a woman to a position of honour in Luke 7: 36-50. Then I will suggest ways that Jesus models for us the redemptive use of power between males and females in social space.
Recommended Citation
Morse, MaryKate, "Jesus’ Use of Social Power in Honour–Shame Conflicts: A Model for Male–Female Interactions" (2008). Faculty Publications - Portland Seminary. 138.
https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/gfes/138
Comments
Originally published in Crucible, 1:2 (October, 2008).
http://www.crucibleonline.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Morse-Jesus-Use-of-Social-Power-in-Honour-Shame-Conflicts-Crucible-1-2-October-2008.pdf