Perhaps Pope Francis could be enough understood as a sensible Jesuit in dialogue with up-to-date global social, economical, political and cultural happenings.
Excuse my participation. I´m enginner, but no sociologist, however I´m from Argentina, It is clear as Francisco expresses his views with the same freedom that there are in our country, in which the human rights policy is unique in the world. Just as we are also references in relation to policies towards small minority. Obviously to develop their lives in our country with many poor people, the difference betwenn his thought , for example, with Ratzinger, is remarkable.
Sorry, in summary, I think that is required know argentinian culture. Cleary.
Pope Francis' early socialization would undoubtedly influence his later life and thinking, along with his formation within the Society of Jesus. The areas in which he has worked as a priest and bishop would influence his spirituality, theological thinking and his concern for the People of God no matter what is their circumstances in society. It seems, also, that he is influenced by Franciscan spirituality. All of this along with many other things produced the man who is now the Bishop of Rome and leader of that Church throughout the world. It is not "required" to know Argentine Culture and Latinoamerican Theology to understand Pope Francis' teaching and ministry. As I have argued there are many factors which have to be taken into consideration to understand his teaching and ministry. His teaching and ministry,however, will continue to develop until his journey ends in this life.
Just as many do not know the historical, cultural, sociological milieu of Jesus of Nazareth, many know the stories of his walking with the poor, working with all kinds of people, his patience, and his commitment to justice. If Francis is "doing likewise" there should not be a problem. Watch, listen, think it over, then see what you have to say.
Certainly Pope Francis is an amazing Pope and a more than refreshing change from the previous Pope. Personally, I have read a great deal of liberation theology and Jesuit teachings; however, I know almost nothing about Argentina. I think understanding liberation theology provides depth and insight into Pope Francis's thinking but it is surely not "required" to understand the theology. As Mary noted above, few Christians know the milieu of Christ and Muslims may not know much of the social milieu of the Prophet Muhammad and his Companions, but they can read the stories and follow the teachings. His openness to people, ideas, other cultures and faiths is remarkable and can one day lead (one hopes) to more peaceful co-existence among people of a variety of faiths. Even his name "Francis" is impressive; were my mother alive, she would be so thrilled since she was a sincere admirer of Saint Francis.
I thank all your comments. I think we could sum up saying that it is "convenient" but "not necessary". "Convenient" because this knowledge aids a better hermeneutical contexto for Francis' style, signs and sayings. "Not necessary" or required because most of these signs, sayings and style show in themselves something universal and easy to be understood for people. I can share about a little book in Spanish.
http://www.academia.edu/4919569/2._Librito_Francisco_obispo_de_Roma_en_el_A%C3%B1o_de_la_Fe._Sus_actitudes_gestos_y_palabras_10_2013_-_ISBN_978-3-639-52099-6_
Existen varias Teologías Latinoamericanas, el Papa Francisco proviene de la Teología de la Cultura o Teología del Pueblo, diversa a la Teología de la Liberación.
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