Theologies of surveillance

This chapter contends that Christian theologies of various historical periods offer considerable scope for critique of 21st century ideologies of surveillance that too-readily assume technical rationality and powers of watching over, monitoring and categorising people. Such ideologies (not limited to the visual senses), it is proposed, neglect core considerations of human relationality. An account is given of the reflected-upon practices of Christian communities living in the light of their belief in the gaze of God the All-Seeing, epitomised in Psalm 139. Attention is paid to discussion of the boundaries over which theologians argue others ought not gaze; in other words, theologies of privacy (drawing upon Luther, Calvin, Roman Catholic Social Teaching as well as other Christian traditions). Consideration is given as to how theologies offer critiques of surveillance ideologies; particularly injustices and involuntary social-political vulnerabilities. Also, attention is given to surveillance within Christian communities and theology. It is concluded that Christian theology and ideas about surveillance are intertwined with each other; historically, politically, and philosophically. Such a view renders surveillance systems more understandable, for these have less to do with particular technologies than with social currents and human interactions. It is further argued that people’s spiritual beliefs and practices are shaped by surveillance, as well as being a critical tool against the same, outside and inside those beliefs and practices.