Covid-19, racism and the ‘state of exception’? A theological ethical engagement with identity and human rights in an age of ‘Corona’ and beyond

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the role that religion and politics play at intersection with individual social rights. Religiously informed political actors capitalised on fears prejudices to further science denialism, normalise nationalist ideologies, curtail human In United States of America, Brazil, South Africa, it took form problematic theologies. many instances, a state exception, as understood in work Giorgio Agamben, was enacted. Such actions often have biopolitical significance revolving around making choices by religious beliefs impact bodies freedoms. This extends from tosocieties. research employs qualitative literature approach investigate theological during pandemic. It highlights populist theologies erosion democracy rights countries highly populations. is argued these strategies reach beyond