Abstract
This essay aims to deepen the consideration of the intersection of West’s corpus with Pentecostal critical thought and praxis by Black-descended persons.
Focusing on the U.S. context, this article argues for Pentecostalism as an example and exemplar of West’s intellectual priorities in at least two areas: radical historicism (or cultural analysis) and prophetic pragmatism (or social commentary). I will rehearse some essential aspects of West’s corpus on these two themes, focusing on Prophesy Deliverance! At the same time, this essay will distill these themes through the work of Pentecostal examples and exemplars. I will examine radical historicism or cultural analysis through the work of the late theological ethicist Leonard Lovett. I will probe prophetic pragmatism through the life and ministry of Pentecostal leader, the late Bishop Smallwood E. Williams. I conclude by considering perhaps the most challenging point of intersection – melancholic utopianism by returning to the work of Leonard Lovett and turning to constructive theologian and Black feminist/womanist scholar Keri Day.