DESCRIPTION:

The ambiguities and complexities of work in contemporary society require probing reflection from a Christian perspective--not only by those in full or part-time employment, but by those in active ministries in the church. This course will explore a range of issues that arise in the workplace, e.g., individual integrity and institutional loyalty, concern for the person and organizational culture, career planning and commitment to the company, family demands and job requirements, sexual and racial discrimination, creative problem-solving and realistic compromises, management styles and worker cooperation, business enterprise and social responsibility. Investigating these binaries will involve the study of relevant biblical and theological writings which touch on the meaning of vocation, citizenship, and spirituality in the workplace. Emphasis will be placed on learning the habits of ethical reflection and action in the context and culture of work.

1. Identifying and interpreting the main venues of moral vision and tension in the workplace.

2. Formulating a biblically informed and ethically sensitive perspective upon workplace themes and cultures.

3. Developing an appreciation of vital discipleship and engaged citizenship in the workplace.

The classroom sessions will include presentation, discussion, case study reports and film or video materials. There will be a strong emphasis on work group participation. Class members' own work experience in church, parachurch, and marketplace settings will provide material for thoughtful and engaged discussion. The class will meet weekly for a three-hour session.

Stackhouse, Max L. and Dennis P. McCann, eds. On Moral Business. Eerdmans, 1995.

Autrey, J. Love and Profit. Morrow, 1991.

Bell, D. The Coming of the Post-Industrial Society: A Venture in Social Forecasting. Basic Books, 1973, 1999.

Diehl, W. The Monday Connection: Competence, Affirmation and Support in the Workplace. Harper & Row, 1991.

Haughey, J. Converting 9 to 5: A Spirituality of Work. Crossroad, 1989.

Liebig , J. E. Business Ethics: Profiles in Civic Virtue. Fulcrum, 1990.

Maccody, M. Why Work? Leading the New Generation. Simon and Schuster, 1988.

Sennet, Richard. The Corrosion of Character: The Personal Consequences of Work in the New Capitalism. Norton, 1998.

Sullivan, William M. Work and Integrity: The Crisis and Promise of Professionalism in America. HarperBusiness, 1995.

Tucker, G. The Faith-Work Connection: A Practical Application of Christian Values in the Workplace. Anglican Book Centre, 1987.

Volf, M. Work in the Spirit. Oxford, 1991.

1. Developing and presenting a group case study. This assignment combines group class presentation with individual written reflection (3-5 pages).

2. Examining an ethical challenge out of your own workplace experience. This paper should utilize ethical explorations taken up in class sessions (8-10 pages).

3. Participating in class discussions (5-7 page written interactions with reading).