The Missionary Position: Mother Teresa in Theory and Practice

The Missionary Position is Christopher Hitchens' controversial examination of Mother Teresa and her global charitable work. Through research and firsthand accounts, Hitchens presents a counter-narrative to the widespread public image of the Catholic nun and humanitarian. The book investigates Mother Teresa's relationships with political figures, her approach to poverty, and the conditions within her missions. Hitchens analyzes financial records, examines witness testimonies, and explores the disconnect between her public persona and operational practices. This concise volume, at 128 pages, builds on Hitchens' previous writings and media appearances about Mother Teresa, including his work on the British television documentary "Hell's Angel." The text presents a fundamental question about the nature of charity and religious influence in humanitarian work, challenging readers to consider the complex relationship between faith-based aid and institutional power.

Readers describe this as a harsh criticism of Mother Teresa that challenges her public image through investigative reporting and documentation. Many note it presents a perspective they hadn't encountered before. Readers appreciated: - The research and citations - Clear, direct writing style - Inclusion of financial records and first-hand accounts - Brief length makes it accessible Common criticisms: - Too short to fully develop all arguments - Perceived as overly aggressive in tone - Some felt it lacked balance or opposing viewpoints - Writing style strikes some as polemical rather than purely factual Ratings: Goodreads: 3.84/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (380+ ratings) From reviews: "Eye-opening research into the finances" - Goodreads reviewer "More of an extended essay than a book" - Amazon reviewer "Made me question assumptions but wished for more depth" - Goodreads reviewer "The tone undermines otherwise solid reporting" - LibraryThing reviewer

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🔍 The book was initially released under the title "The Missionary Position" after UK publishers rejected Hitchens' first choice, "Sacred Cow" 📚 Christopher Hitchens wrote this exposé after co-producing a highly controversial 1994 documentary called "Hell's Angel" about Mother Teresa for the BBC 🏥 The book reveals that despite receiving millions in donations, Mother Teresa's facilities often lacked basic medical care, with patients receiving minimal treatment regardless of their conditions 🌍 Hitchens documents Mother Teresa's connections with controversial political figures, including her support of Haiti's Duvalier dictatorship and her acceptance of donations from Charles Keating, convicted in the savings and loan scandal 🎭 The work sparked significant debate about the "white savior" narrative in humanitarian aid, highlighting how Mother Teresa's order focused more on spiritual salvation than medical treatment of the poor