Political Theology

College University of Trinity College, Faculty of Divinity
Instructor(s)
Course Code TRT2661HF
Semester First Semester
Section 0101
Online No
Credits One Credit
Location Toronto (St George Campus)
Description

Polictical Theology addresses from an abstract and theoretical perspective with a normative flavour, questions concerning the relationships between institutionalized religion and politics. It also deals with the analysis of agency in shaping public policies when religious beliefs and wor!dviews, as well as their absence or even opposition to them, inform public decision making. In this context, we ask ourselves whether it is possible to develop a theological discourse that doesn't touch everyday iife of ordinary people and that doesn't address the concerns that they face in their specific and concrete situations? TheolOf)y has somehow to provide guidance in the human quest for the meaning of our own lives, in the search for the ultimate purpose of human activity and action, as well as in the analysis of social, economic, political, and legal structures and the underlying dynamics that give them form. But is it legitimate in a world heavily influenced by the French and American revolutions (Laicite de l'etat / separation of Church and State} to allow the interference of religious beliefs in shaping political discourse and political debate? Is there a place for faith based values to be translated into a political platform affecting the policies of the Government and shaping public opinion? This course analyzes critically the genesis (origins, backgrounds, and roots) of the tenets and theoretical frameworks (concepts, methods, assumptions, worldviews and prescriptions) that are employed, developed, and systematized by the different authors and schools of thought of what is now known as "Political theology". Quite important becomes also to look at the issues raised and the questions asked. In a post-modern, multicultural, secular and globalized world, a theological discourse enriched by the insights and methodologies developed by the social sciences and literary theory should allow fresh approaches to the analysis of current and old concerns.

Schedule Wed
Start Time 19:00
End Time 21:00
Hours Per Week 2
Minimum Enrolment 10
Maximum Enrolment 20
Schedule Notes

<p>Location: Larkin Building room 340</p>

Teaching Method
Lectures
Means of Evaluation
Class Participation
Research Paper
Other
Currently Offered Fall 2017