Individualized Distance Learning

PH504

Mouw

PH504: CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW AND CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES ( 4 units).

Richard J. Mouw, President and Professor of Christian Philosophy

DESCRIPTION:

Contemporary challenges to the Christian worldview come from perspectives that are characterized by differing conceptions of reality. When confronted by such challenges, Christians are forced to clarify their understanding of God, God’s relationship to the world, and the appropriate patterns for humans living in God’s world. This course may be divided into three sections — each section, however, aims to build upon the previous one and should not be viewed as a separate entity. Section One considers the concept of ‘Worldview’. Section Two looks at a Biblical Worldview. Section Three examines several significant challenges to a Biblical worldview including ‘Secular Humanism’, ‘Transcendental Humanism’ of the contemporary ‘New Age’ cults, and recent Post Modern philosophical perspectives. Special attention will also be given to environmental issues.

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/COURSE GOALS:

As a result of this course, it is hoped that students will be familiar with basic themes and options in the ongoing debate of philosophical issues. The course aims at equipping students to articulate a Christian vision of life in a manner that is both informed and creative. In addition, the student will have an understanding of a number of alternative worldviews and will be able to engage in gracious and respectful dialogue with those who hold them.

 

COURSE FORMAT :

The course uses recorded lectures, a detailed independent study guide, and readings. It is designed to be completed in an 11-week period while allowing for flexibility in the student’s schedule.

 

REQUIRED READING:

  • Bednarowski, Mary Farrell. New Religions and the Theological Imagination in America. Indiana University Press, 1995.
  • Card, Orson Scott. Seventh Son. TOR Books, 1987.
  • Johnston, Carol. And the Leaves of the Trees are for the Healing of the Nations. Office of Environmental Justice. Presbyterian Church (USA), 1997.
  • Murray, John C. The Problem of God. Yale University Press, 1964.
  • Russell, Bertrand. Why I am Not a Christian and Other Essays on Religion and Related Subjects. Simon and Schuster, 1957.
  • Selected readings contained in the Syllabus of Readings .

ASSIGNMENTS:

  • 5-7 page paper
  • Midterm Examination
  • Final Examination

PREREQUISITES: None.

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM : Meets MDiv core requirement in Philosophical Theology (PHIL).

FINAL EXAM: Yes

Updated July 2007