• “A new advance on the frontier of postcolonial liberation theology! Taking directions from discoveries in brain science, Carmelo Santos-Rolon walks us step-by-step through religious experience toward other-centering, re-integrating the self, and authentic transformation. A great stride forward!”

    Ted Peters

    Co-Editor of Theology and Science, and Distinguished Research Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology and Ethics at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, USA. He co-edits the journal, published by the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences

  • “This book is a pioneering work that brings together neuroscience and theology with a decolonial perspective. Its relevance transcends all contexts, making it undeniably significant. The author offers systematic, intellectually sound, embodied, and scientifically anchored wisdom – a rare combination that few thinkers can achieve.”

    Antje Jackelen

    Archbishop Emerita of the Church of Sweden and Past President of the European Society for the Study of Science and Theology

  • “A Liberation Theology of the Brain offers no less than a new worldview, based on science, history and theology. Yet, lofty as that sounds, Dr. Santos presents it with a down-to-earth conversational tone that is a delight to read, and makes it easy to see the relevance to our everyday lives.”

    Martha J. Farah
    Director, Center for Neuroscience & Society
    Walter H. Annenberg Professor in the Natural Sciences
    University of Pennsylvania

  • “This wonderful book leads us into the neuroscience of emotions, opening up the Apostle Paul’s invitation to “Be transformed by the renewing of the mind.” Weaving together the best of brain science with liberation theology and sacraments, Santos shows how the power of God’s spirit can liberate us for healing wounds of colonization and slavery. The mind is a storyteller, a creator of worlds. This book will transform your mind. It is a joy to read.”

     

    Barbara Rossing,

    Author of The Rapture Exposed: The Message of Hope in the Book of Revelation

    Professor of New Testament and Environmental Ministry Coordinator

    Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago

Welcome.

Praise for A Liberation Theology of the Brain

Hi, I’m Carmelo.

A theologian and pastor passionate about how science and theology can work together to reveal the beauty of God’s creation and bring healing to the world. Trained first as a chemist, I have always been intrigued about the intersections of brain science, liberation theology, and justice. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I bring a decolonial lens to questions of faith, identity, and healing. Whether through teaching, writing, or ecumenical dialogue, I seek to bridge disciplines and build communities where people are seen, valued, and free to flourish—mind, body, and spirit.

Neuroscience

Carmelo integrates insights from neuroscience and cognitive sciences—such as the neuroscience of emotions, religious experience, and decision-making—to explore how our brains and nervous systems are shaped by and respond to religious practices and symbols. This interdisciplinary approach reveals how the Spirit of God operates within the complexities of our neural structures, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Theology

Rooted in liberation and decolonial theologies, Dr. Santos-Rolón emphasizes a theology that is both reflective and active. He advocates for a faith that engages with the real-world struggles of marginalized communities, aiming to liberate individuals from internalized oppression and societal injustices. His theological framework seeks to demonstrate how divine presence permeates every aspect of human experience, guiding believers toward holistic liberation.

Decolonizing of Emotions

Dr. Santos-Rolón addresses the impact of colonization on emotional expressions and experiences, proposing that both theology and neuroscience can aid in decolonizing our emotional lives. By understanding and transforming the ways in which emotions have been shaped by oppressive structures, individuals and communities can reclaim their emotional narratives, leading to healing and renewed agency.

Selected Contributions

  • "Our Neighbor's House is On Fire."

    Testimony before the U.S. Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Committee regarding effects of the first Trump administration’s family separation policy on the U.S.-Mexican border.

    Read

  • Decolonizing Emotions: Musings on a Lutheran Liberation Theology of the Brain

    Luther Seminary Colloquy on Lutheran Spirituality

    Watch

  • Keynote for Rostered Ministers Gathering

    ELCA Director for Theological Diversity and Ecumenical & Inter-Religious Engagement Rev. Carmelo Santos gives a keynote address for the 2023 Rostered Ministers Gathering in Phoenix.

    Watch

  • The God of Creation and Confluence of Theology & Science

    Podcast:

    Ciencia, Fe y Esperanza

    Esperanza College

    Listen

  • Can Scientists See God at Work?

    From the John Templeton Foundation, an article on what neuroscience and Christianity can teach each other.

    Read

  • Studying the Bible from a Neuroscience Perspective, Four Bible Studies

    This bible study is meant as a resource for groups to explore how neuroscience can provide us with a lens to read the holy Scriptures in ways that can yield new insights and rich interpretations.

    Read
Learn more about the book

Contact me.

godandthebrain@gmail.com