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 appropriate biblical and theological writings which touch on the meaning of vocation, citizenship, and discipleship in the work situation. Emphasis will be placed on learning the habits of ethical contemplation and practices of ethical action in the context and culture of work.

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

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

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

The classroom session 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 interaction.

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

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

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

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 class presentation with written reflection.

2. Examining an ethical challenge out of your own workplace experience. This paper should utilize the ethical explorations taken up in class sessions.

3. Participating in class discussions.

None.

Elective.

None.