Critical Theory of Religion

Documentary Announcement

The film and documentary-makers Gary Kesler and Robert Byrd (Moondog Productions), who's film credits include "Time and Chance: Gerald Ford's Appointment with History" and "Light Screens: The Leaded Glass of Frank Lloyd Wright," have proposed to produce a 90-minute documentary covering Professor Siebert's life and teachings.   Currently titled "Exploring the Future of Religion: Religious Faith and Secular Rationality - The Life and Works of Rudolf Siebert," the documentary will focus on the historical formation of Siebert's "critical theory of religion" over the past 50 years.  

It will cover his experience in World War II as a German soldier; as a prisoner of war; as an antifascist; as a university student; an instructor of theology; a professor of sociology, philosophy, and comparative religion; and his political engagements on two continents.   It will deal with theories of societal conflict, communication, and cooperation amongst religions, nations, civilizations, and its leaders.   The film will conclude with an explanation of Siebert's concerns with the three global alternative futures of society, which are (1) the Totally Administered Society; (2) the Entirely Militarized Society; or (3) the Reconciled Society - in general, as well as with three possible futures of religion, which are (1) Fundamentalism; (2) Secularism; or (3) Reconciliation of the religious and the secular - in particular.  

The documentary-makers also want to produce a 60-minute film in support of Siebert's instructional seminars and conferences on the future of society and religion in America and Europe.   Currently, the filmmakers are searching for adequate funding for their projects.  

If you would like to make a financial contribution to the making of this documentary, an account has been opened at
  National City
  5299 West Main Street
  Kalamazoo, MI 49009
  Bank routing #: 072000915
  Account #: 127152247

To contribute, you have two options to choose from:

  • Bank Transfer: If you would like to make your contribution by way of bank transfer, please call (888) 622-4932 and press *0 to speak to a National City employee. They will help you navigate the electronic paper work.
  • Check: If you would like to make your contribution by way of a personal check, send the check to the address above and include the bank routing #, account #, and make it payable to "Prof. Siebert's Documentary Fund."

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