Theology (also see REL crses) (THE)

THE 150 First Year Seminar (3 credits)

Seminar subjects vary.

Attributes: First-Year Seminar, Undergraduate

THE 153 Encountering the New Testament (3 credits)

This course examines the biblical traditions and texts of the Christian Scriptures as products of particular historical and cultural communities, and as literary and theological documents. Although it focuses on the New Testament, the course will also introduce biblical studies more generally, including the relationship between the Hebrew Bible and New Testament. Special attention will be paid to the need for historical- and literary-critical methods to interpret the Bible as mandated by the 1943 Papal encyclical, "Divino Afflante Spiritu," and later Church documents. This course will also help students acquire familiarity with the great diversity in the New Testament about regarding the person and significance of Jesus, the role and structure of the Christian community, and how discipleship is understood.

Attributes: Signature Course, Undergraduate

THE 154 Catholic Theological Tradition (3 credits)

This course critically engages the Christian, particularly Catholic, understanding of humanity in relation to God. It undertakes this study from historical/chronological, philosophical, or thematic/topical approaches. It introduces central Christian theological concepts, such as the doctrines of Christ, the human person, sin/grace/salvation, sacramentality, and moral principles such as the preferential option for the poor, solidarity, and the common good.

Attributes: Signature Course, Theology Level 1, Undergraduate

THE 155 Catholic Social Tradition (3 credits)

This course engages students in study of Christian teachings and practices related to the call to social responsibility, particularly in what is known as Catholic Social Teaching. Students examine the theological, historical, and biblical foundations of ethical commitments, explore a variety of central principles within the tradition (for instance, human dignity, social justice, rights, solidarity, and preferential option for the poor); and analyze how these ethical insights inform analysis of situations in the contemporary world (for instance, economic justice, international development, human rights, war and peace, the forced migration, and care for the global environment).

Attributes: Signature Course, Undergraduate

THE 170 Special Topics in Theology (3 credits)

Topics will vary according to the semester in which the class is offered.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 211 Hebrew Bible (3 credits)

This course will examine the biblical traditions and texts of the Hebrew Scriptures as products of particular historical and cultural communities, and as literary and theological documents.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 241 Intro to Systematic Theology (3 credits)

An investigation into the sources, norms, and key categories of Christian theology from its origins to the present. The ancient sources, contemporary issues, and related political, social and economic contexts will be studied using analytical, autobiographical, and narrative resources.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 261 Christian Social Ethics (3 credits)

This course provides a general overview of the forms and teachings of Christian ethics and how they impact the broader society. Specific social forms based upon human rights, theological virtues, conceptions of justice and the common good will be analyzed through teachings on war, the conquest, race, gender, class and the relationship between church and state. Particular attention will be given to the recent papal encyclicals.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Health Care Ethics Course, Justice Ethics and the Law , Undergraduate

THE 270 Special Topics in Theology (3 credits)

Concentrated focus on a selected theme in theology at an advanced level. Topic and content varies from semester to semester. Course may be taken twice for credit as the topic changes. Certifications differ by section.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 323 The Psalms (3 credits)

The most influential of all Old Testament books for Christian spirituality, the Psalms offer a special glimpse into the religious life of ancient Israel. Placed within their larger historical background, psalms of various types (laments, hymns, royal and wisdom psalms, etc.) will be studied for their literary and religious character. The question of the Psalter's theology as a whole will be addressed as well.

Attributes: Ancient Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 324 NT&Chr Atts to Jews/Judaism (3 credits)

The New Testament and Christian Attitudes toward Jews and Judaism: Although the New Testament conveys God's love in Christ to billions of readers, over the centuries "erroneous and unjust interpretations…relative to the Jewish people" (Pope John Paul II, 1997) promoted hostility and violence. This course explores this recurring "anti-Jewish" dynamic with a special focus on contemporary Catholic teaching on Gospel interpretation and particularly problematic scriptural passages.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 325 Synoptic Gospels (3 credits)

A study of each Synoptic Gospel in its own unique historical and cultural context with special emphasis on the application of the most recent critical methodology. Students will grapple with the problems of historical distance by applying recent literary and historical methods to questions such as the identification of literary genre, narrative structure, agendas and target audience, rhetorical techniques, and tensions between author's creativity and use of older sources.

Attributes: Ancient Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 326 Letters of Paul (3 credits)

The aim of this course is to examine the main characteristics of Paul's faith as found in his epistles. The course will establish the broad argument of each of the letters, their historical setting, and their literary and rhetorical character, and demonstrate how these elements work together to express Paul's gospel.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Ancient Studies Course, Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 331 Early Christn Thought (3 credits)

An historical and theological investigation of the Christian community during the first four centuries. Among the topics to be considered are the relationship of the early church to classical culture, conflicts over issues of orthodoxy and heresy, and the links between historical context and early Christian doctrinal claims. The course will also investigate the development of the canon of Scripture, Christian leadership structures, the creeds, and early Christian traditions of martyrdom, monasticism, the sacraments and worship.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 333 Knowl & Love of God: Mid Ages (3 credits)

A study of major figures in the history of Latin Christian thought from 400 C.E. to 1500 C.E. with a concentration on theories concerning how we know God and what it means to love both God and neighbor. Emphasis is on the reading of primary sources, both scholastic and monastic, in translation. Course content will require that we consider who God is, who we are in relation to God, Jesus Christ's role in both our knowledge of God and our capacity to love, and the relationship between faith and reason.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Medieval, Ren & Reform Studies, Undergraduate

THE 334 Revolt, Reform, Reunion? (3 credits)

This course explores the religious, social, political, and cultural factors that precipitated the Protestant Reformation, with particular emphasis given to theological issues, such as justification, the role of scripture in the life of the church, church structure, the nature of ministry, and the sacraments. In addition, the course examines the progress that has been made in the 20th and 21st centuries to overcome the difference of the 16th century as a result of ecumenical dialogue between Roman Catholic Church, various Protestant churches, and the Anglican Communion.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 335 Gendr & Christian Spirituality (3 credits)

An examination of some of the spiritual classics written by both the men and women of the Christian faith. Emphasis on reading and study of primary texts, largely medieval, with an eye to any discernible differences between men as spiritual authors and women as spiritual authors. Course will also examine the given perceptions of gender, spirituality and eroticism.

Attributes: Diversity Course, Faith Justice Course, Gender Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 339 Darwin, Dogma, and Ecology (3 credits)

In his 2015 encyclical, On Care for our Common Home (Laudato Sí), Pope Francis makes an urgent appeal to "every person living on this planet" for dialogue and action in the face of impending environmental collapse. Of course, the pope's argument is grounded in Roman Catholic teaching; however, his critique is more philosophical than theological. It concerns not just the detrimental effect modern technology has had on the environment, but, more fundamentally, how modern science understands our knowledge of the world, and how in turn this understanding has adversely affected human action. The course will investigate the development within Catholicism of an evolutionary worldview that critically embraces neo-Darwinian science, but also distinguishes between religious faith-traditions and secular faith-traditions, suggesting how the former might prove more effective than the latter in addressing the ecological crisis.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 340 Atheism and the Case for God (3 credits)

Over the past twenty years several best-selling authors have mounted a concerted attack on religion, advancing an argument that is, purportedly, so fresh and compelling as to earn them the title, "The New Atheists." The more important and enduring cultural phenomenon affecting religious practice today is the secularism that has increasingly dominated modern civilization, religious belief and practice became significant options rather than cultural givens. This course deals with the question of whether secularism arose in reaction to religion, or as one of religion's greatest success stories. Much of the analysis will be historical: When and how did the secular movement arise? What notion of "God" did it reject? But the course will also address questions that are more philosophical and theological in nature: Has natural science disproved religion? And is secularism properly understood as necessarily concurrent with scientific advance?

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 341 Jesus through the Centuries (3 credits)

An inquiry into Western Christianity's understandings of the meaning and significance of Jesus Christ, including New Testament Christologies, the controversies of the 4th and 5th century councils, medieval atonement theories, post-Enlightenment problems and reformulations, and contemporary liberation Christologies. Students will be encouraged to develop their own Christological position as an integral part of the course.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 342 Does God Exist? (3 credits)

"Is there a God?" is the first and foremost question for many. In this course, students will explore a variety of theories regarding the question of whether or not a singular (monotheistic) God exists. The arguments that address this age-old question will be evaluated epistemologically, that is, through the lens of what kind of knowledge is being considered and how this knowledge is attained. In grappling with the topic, the course will also consider such related questions as the following: What is there a great nothingness and silence from the heavens? What is the meaning of life? Can we attain true happiness and fulfillment in this life? If God exists, why is there so much evil, violence and hunger in the world? Does life end at death or is it just changed?

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 343 Theology of Word and Sacrament (3 credits)

The course explores the Christian's experience of God speaking and acting in the world and the Christian's response of listening and praising God in the Christian community. The interrelationship of the words and actions of God and His people are examined.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 344 Theology of the Church (3 credits)

The spirit of the Church as Christian community, the people of God who witness to the Christian mission between the resurrection of Christ and his Parousia. The foundations of the church in the Scriptures, modern interpretations of its composition, relationship to the world, and goals. Readings from Vatican II and contemporary theologians.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 345 Evil as a Theological Problem (3 credits)

An examination of the profound challenge both to religious understandings of a meaningful and ordered existence and to theological claims regarding an omnipotent, beneficent deity rendered by the occurrence of evil and the suffering that accompanies it. The course will contextualize particular manifestations of evil and investigate how evil is identified, explained, challenged and interpreted through texts in theology and popular culture, with particular attention to its modern and contemporary manifestations.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 211)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 346 Salvation as Story & Belief (3 credits)

In this course, redemption is presented in its two simultaneous dimensions - the unique and salvific role of Christ in the plan of Salvation, as well as the role of individual persons in response to Christ. This two-fold nature of salvation results in the paradoxical formulation of redemption as both an accomplished event as well as an unfinished, developing relationship. The mysteries of the Incarnation will be investigated as the already, complete aspect of redemption, while an inquiry into human morality and moral values will address the developing, relational dimension of redemption.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 347 Death and Rebirth (3 credits)

The course deals with the systematic theological topic of eschatology, the study of the "last thing" (eschaton), which is God or the Reign of God; and the "last things" (eschata), which are death, individual judgment, heaven, hell, purgatory, the Second Coming of Christ, the resurrection of the body, general judgment, and the consummation of all things in the perfection of the Kingdom of God. The course includes a survey of traditional, (especially biblical) approaches to eschatology, but its methodology will proceed largely "from below" as an exercise in "hope seeking understanding." Thus, the course will include an ecumenical perspective, and community service in the form of care for the dying (especially hospice). Students will be expected to make critical judgments concerning cultural practices relating to care of the dying, treatment of the dead, and the acceptance of death as an event of life.

Attributes: Health Care Ethics Course, Undergraduate

THE 348 Theology and Science (3 credits)

An exploration of the Galileo Case, evolution, contemporary Big Bang cosmology, and quantum theory show how the relationship between theology and science has developed to the present day. The scientific, methodological and theological issues will be critically evaluated for their significance today. Students will thus be provided with the basic tools for understanding and participating in the contemporary dialogue between science and theology.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Theology Level 3, Undergraduate

THE 349 Theology of Disability (3 credits)

This course will examine the relationship between the way in which human disability is approached, on the one hand, from the perspective of the theological anthropology found in the Christian faith and, on the other hand, how it is approached by other contemporary discourses. More specifically, the course will examine the adequacy of certain contemporary approaches to disability and inquire into ways in which the Christian theological tradition can contribute to the project of rethinking and re-imagining the nature of human disability as well as the nature of the human person in general.

Attributes: Diversity Course, Faith Justice Course, Health Care Ethics Course, Undergraduate

THE 350 The Beauty of God (3 credits)

This course explores how beauty serves as a way to God. In the history of all three major monotheistic faith traditions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam), it was believed that God identified himself through various divine names. Focusing primarily, though not exclusively, on the Judeo-Christian tradition, this course examines beauty as one of these divine names. Consequently, the mode of theology that will ground this exploration is what has recently come to be called theological aesthetics. As a mode of theology, or a theo-logic, theological aesthetics draws from the principles of human reason as the art of thinking well (hence as a logic) and the event of divine revelation. Insofar as it unites theology with beauty, a theological aesthetic not only draws from the grammar, language, and thinking associated with beauty and art, but attempts to tie these more deeply to both human reason and divine revelation. Taking its cue from aesthetic experience, this course is divided into three basic parts: part 1 is the encounter with the object of interest, namely God's existence; part 2 examines the subjective aspects of the encounter, namely, the socio-cultural dimensions of how we come to understand God, "religion," faith, etc.; and part 3 examines the results inspired by the encounter, namely, the reception of divine beauty in revelation, music, responding to evil and human suffering, and mysticism.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Medieval, Ren & Reform Studies, Undergraduate

THE 351 Ignatian Spirit in Jesuit Trad (3 credits)

An examination of and reflection on the religious vision of Ignatius of Loyola and its embodiment in the life of the Society of Jesus, including a reading of the Spiritual Exercises. An overview of the major movements and influential persons in Jesuit history, a study of Jesuit spirituality and theology, and a consideration of the role of the Jesuits in broader church life.

Attributes: European Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 352 Recent Trends in Roman Cathol (3 credits)

Recent Trends in Roman Catholicism: This course will deal with the documents of Vatican II, current understandings of the sacraments of the Catholic Church, the movements towards unification among the Christian churches, recent suggestions for the exercise of the papacy in the future, and the modern emphasis on social justice as part of Catholic life and practice.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 353 American Catholicism (3 credits)

American Catholicism: This course deals with the diverse dynamics within the life of the Roman Catholic Church in the United States with a main focus on the 19th and 20th centuries. It will study the theological development of this indigenous Catholic tradition and situate it within its broader historical and cultural context.

Attributes: American Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 354 Beauty&ConsciousnessInTheArts (3 credits)

This course is designed to enable students to examine the relationship between faith and reason in the context of beauty and consciousness. It will do this in two ways. First, with the goal to acquiring a relative mastery, it will offer students an opportunity to engage and explore certain themes pertaining to beauty and consciousness that are relevant to major figures within the Christian theological tradition. Second, it will enable students to demonstrate their relative mastery over these themes by bringing them into conversation with contemporary presentations of those themes as they appear in artistic form.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Medieval, Ren & Reform Studies, Undergraduate

THE 355 American Religious Thought (3 credits)

An historical survey of the traditions of American religious thought with special regard for the 19th and 20th centuries; a critical examination of representative religious thinkers and theologians; a study of the role of religion in American life and society.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 356 Liberation & Pol Theologies (3 credits)

An inquiry into the critique and vision brought to theology by the perspective of the poor and oppressed in the 20th century via the paradigm known as liberation and political theology. An extensive examination of the context and methods of Latin American liberation theology followed by an examination of European political theology and African-American liberation theology. Other topics for consideration may include the work of Hispanic, Asian, African, and North American feminist liberation theologians.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith Justice Course, Faith-Reason Course, Latin American Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 357 Feminist Theologies (3 credits)

An inquiry into the sources, contexts, methods, and symbols of Christian theology from the perspective of women in the process of human liberation. The roles of women in church and society, the history of the women's movement in North America, and the experiences and theological perspectives offered by feminists of differing racial, ethnic and socioeconomic background will be examined. Feminist reflections within other religious traditions may also be considered.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith Justice Course, Faith-Reason Course, Gender Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 358 Faith, Justice & Jesuit Miss (3 credits)

This course will challenge students to reflect theologically on the historic grounds of the Christian faith and how and why, for many throughout Christian history, a concern for social, economic, and political justice is rooted in the Christian Gospel. It will also familiarize students with the historical, social, religious, economic, political, educational and cultural context of contemporary Bolivia; teach students how to stand outside their own epistemological system and more fully understand the reality of the cultural "other;" and assist students to integrate this knowledge into a complex understanding of the demands of faith and the work of justice within the specific context of contemporary Bolivia. When taught as a study tour, the class will spend 10 days over Spring Break in Bolivia visiting the mission sites of the Jesuit organization Fe y Alegria.

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Latin American Studies Course, Non-Western Studies (GEP), Undergraduate

THE 359 Religion, Violence & Terrorism (3 credits)

Religiously motivated violence constitutes one of the most important socio/economic/political factors in the twenty-first century. This course will probe both the roots and the recent manifestations of violence and terrorism in the name of religious convictions and traditions. Through rigorous investigation of both primary and secondary literature, this course will provide a thorough presentation of the theological roots of religious violence, as well as its contemporary manifestations. The course will unfold in three parts: 1) the roots of religious violence: scripture, sacrifice and ancient conquest; 2) cosmic struggle: the violence of apocalypticism then and now and 3) contemporary manifestations: sexism and racism; recent religious wars and genocides; and terrorism. When taught as a study tour, will include international travel.

Attributes: Globalization Course, Irish Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 360 Rel Vision in Film & Fiction (3 credits)

This course introduces fiction and films that are driven by religious sensibilities and theological insights. Issues rising throughout the course include deity, sin, forgiveness, grace, redemption, virtue, and community. Student expectations entail critical analysis and theological reflection, as well as a very basic grasp of the phenomenon of human religiosity.

Attributes: American Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 361 Catholic Social Teaching (3 credits)

The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the tradition of Catholic social teaching with a view to developing skills for critical reading and integrated appropriation of these documents. Beginning with Rerum Novarum (1891), we will examine the most important papal, conciliar, and episcopal social teaching texts up to the present time, identifying foundation principles, tracing central theological, ethical, and ecclesial concerns, and locating each document in its proper historical context.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Health Care Ethics Course, Undergraduate

THE 362 Fth & Jus: Scrpt & Soc Values (3 credits)

Faith and Justice: Scripture and Social Values: How and why a concern for social, economic, and political justice is rooted in and demanded by the Christian gospel, and what this has to say about the nature and mission of the church. An overview of the social teaching of the Catholic Church in the past century with emphasis on the thought of the most recent popes. Consideration of certain social justice issues: war and peace, crime and punishment, world hunger, racism, human rights, and the international economic order.

Attributes: Faith Justice Course, Latin American Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 363 Ignatius & Cty: Jesuit Urb Mis (3 credits)

Ignatius and the City: Jesuit Urban Missiology: This course reviews the theology and spirituality of Ignatius of Loyola and how his early followers in the Society of Jesus established a particular missiology. Study of the network of ministries created by the first generation of Jesuits in Rome will the first part of the course with particular emphasis on the urban context. An examination of how that missiology has been used in and around the City of Philadelphia in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries will also be included in the course.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 364 Pursuit of Love: Sexual Ethics (3 credits)

This course explores some basic questions: What is love, and what does it mean for Christians to try to live as God-like lovers in all that they do, and specifically in living as sexual beings? If love is considered a necessary context for genital involvement, what specific characteristics must this love have in order to render its genital expression morally acceptable? How do we distinguish morally appropriate genital activity from that which is not? These questions are addressed within the general theological framework of Christianity that recognizes human sexuality as a multi-faceted reality involving our bodies, minds and hearts. In dealing with the moral questions and arguments surrounding premarital sexual activity, contraception, same-sex genital acts, masturbation and abortion, how can we resolve the possible tension that may arise between the promptings of our personal conscience and the official moral teachings regarding sexuality that are put forth by the Catholic Church, other Christian churches and some major religions of the world?

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Undergraduate

THE 365 Marriage/Same Sex Union/Divorc (3 credits)

Marriage, Same Sex Unions, and Divorce: Examining the Ethical Issues: The Judeo-Christian tradition regards marriage as a divinely instituted reality designed, not only to enhance the humanity of men and women and to establish a stable environment for the nurturing of children, but to serve also as a reminder and embodiment of God's loving relationship with His people. This course lays bare the tension between the biblical and theological texts highlighting the sacred status of marriage and the many secular aspects of contemporary society that portray marriage as "just a piece of paper" or as little more than a legal fiction. This tension shapes discussions of the psychological, social and ethical dimensions of love, marriage, and sexuality. People who marry today do so in the face of numerous questions and challenges: the "hook-up" culture, accepted, even expected, cohabitation, the extended meaning of "family," recognition of same-sex civil unions and/or marriages, undefined gender roles, and high divorce rates that are supported, perhaps even encouraged, largely by "no-fault" divorce laws. These issues are addressed, along with the ethical arguments surrounding various kinds of reproductive technology and family-planning methods. In addition, the course explains the Catholic Church's laws regarding the "impediments" or obstacles to a valid marriage, and the granting of annulments, and delves, finally, into the social, ethical and theological controversies surrounding divorce and remarriage, with particular attention given to their effects on children.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Undergraduate

THE 366 Christian Medical Ethics (3 credits)

With the technological inauguration of the age of new medicine we have at our disposal more means than norms for intervention in the life, health, and death processes of human existence. Even more crucial is the question: "Should we do everything that is within our capacity to do?" Consideration will be given to the contribution of Christian ethicists in their reflection on the issues involved in abortion, reproductive engineering (AIH, AID, IVF, cloning, etc.), care of the dying, euthanasia, medical experimentation, organ transplantation, and the rights of patients.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Health Care Ethics Course, Justice Ethics and the Law , Latin American Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 367 Suffering and Death (3 credits)

Biblical, Systematic and Ethical Perspectives: Dramatic advances in medical information and technology increase daily and these advances are being implemented almost immediately. As a result, people who have succumbed to their illnesses only a few years ago can now have their lives extended by being treated aggressively. This treatment does prolong the lives of many people, but in the process it also causes people to endure much pain and suffering. As a result many Christians are focusing on the age old question of "why do innocent openly have to suffer?" Various answers have been given to this question by society: Dr. Kevorkian's "death machine," Oregon's "Death With Dignity Act," direct abortion of defective fetuses, and even infanticide. It has been said that "only the suffering human person knows that he/she is suffering and wonders why; and he/she suffers in a humanly speaking still deeper way if he/she does not find a satisfactory answer." This course will examine the meaning of personal suffering, as well as the Christian response to the suffering of others from biblical and systematic perspectives. Students will then apply these insights to two specific medical ethics issues-physician-assisted suicide and medical treatments for handicapped newborns.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 368 Just Hlth Care in Dev Nations (3 credits)

Just Health Care in Developing Nations: An investigation of adequate health care as a fundamental human right. The course will proceed from the premise that socially induced needs are a result of historical development of material and social conditions, coupled with a social consensus that some things are necessary for happiness, social life, or some other goal. It will consider the inability of many societies to supply adequate health care as an issue of basic personal dignity, a claim against society, and as a matter of justice. The course will examine the issue of just health care for all peoples from both public health and ethical perspectives. When taught as a study tour, students will travel internationally.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Globalization Course, Health Care Ethics Course, Justice Ethics and the Law , Latin American Studies Course, Theology Level 3, Undergraduate

THE 370 Special Topics in Theology (3 credits)

Concentrated focus on a selected theme in theology or religion at an advanced level. Topic and content varies from semester to semester. Course may be taken twice for credit as the topic changes. Other certifications differ by section.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 371 Christianity and Media (3 credits)

This course offers an opportunity to explore the relationships between Christianity and the wide variety of modes of communication that we refer to as "media." In the course, students will engage in two basic tasks. First, students will engage in the descriptive task of identifying the current state of the media with respect to religion. How are religions and religious issues portrayed in various media? How do Christians understand and use media for their various purposes? Second, the class will engage in the normative task of judging the social and moral worth of the various modes of communication using the resources of the discipline of Christian social ethics. Does the current media landscape support human flourishing and the just society? If so, what should be done to ensure that this continues? If not, how might it be shaped so that it supports such development?

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Undergraduate

THE 372 Technology Ethics (3 credits)

This course will engage in critical reflection on technology, its role in human lives, and its impact on society. The course will examine various theories of the nature technology. It will also investigate particular resources available within the discipline of Christian social ethics that are central to understanding and evaluation the moral worth of various technologies, such as common good, justice, human dignity, development, and solidarity. These conceptual tools will then be used to explore the ethical implications of technology will be the assessment of a variety of particular cases of both commonplace and emerging technologies (e.g., civil engineering, cellular telecommunications, social media, surveillance, digital divide, data security, product manufacturing and disposal, intellectual property, body modification, and the post-human movement).

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Justice Ethics and the Law , Undergraduate

THE 373 Economic Ethics (3 credits)

Economic Ethics: This course will examine the historical, social and philosophical conditions that gave rise to economics as a distinct discipline. Both the theory and practice of economics will be subjected to an ethical analysis drawing upon biblical and theological sources, particularly emphasizing Catholic teaching. Different economic systems will be compared and different forms of economic life and teaching within the Christian church will be discussed.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Globalization Course, Justice Ethics and the Law , Undergraduate

THE 374 War and Peace (3 credits)

Throughout Christian tradition, theologians have argued for and against Christian participation in war. This course will examine these arguments through reading relevant biblical, theological, historical and philosophical materials. We may explore how the various arguments have been represented (or misrepresented) in popular culture through film.

Prerequisites: PHL 154

Attributes: Ethics Intensive, Faith Justice Course, Irish Studies Course, Undergraduate

THE 380 Interreligious Dialogue (3 credits)

This course will involve both study and immersion: study of the history and theology of dialogue chiefly but not exclusively in Catholic Christian circles; immersion by writing and by regular involvement with local temples, mosques, synagogues, meditation centers, etc. Lecture with discussion and meditation. Reflection and research papers, focusing on one's own interior dialogue as well as exterior dialogue.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 381 One True Religion? (3 credits)

This course examines Christian responses to two important questions: Can the world's many religions, which have different beliefs and different practices, all be true, or must only be true? If, as Christianity has claimed throughout its history, salvation is possible only through the mediation of Jesus the Christ, does this mean that anyone who is not Christian is not "saved," or is consigned to hell? Among the topics explored: classical and contemporary theories of truth; the relationship of truth and salvation; Christian theories of exclusivism, inclusivism, pluralism, and particularism.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 382 Religion, Society, and God (3 credits)

This course is an inquiry into the theological and philosophical nature of religion. What is the origin and development of religious traditions? Are there characteristics which are universal and how does theology and philosophy view them? The course will look at diverse modes of religious experience and conceptions of God, human existence and community. The philosophical and theological perspectives on the meaning of belief, symbolism and ritual in the spiritual quest for the transcendent.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate

THE 384 Jews/Chr: Theologies Compared (3 credits)

The course studies fundamental religious questions as understood from various Jewish and Christian perspectives. Christian and Jewish students will gain an understanding of the other religious community while also deepening their understanding of their own. Other students will encounter the two traditions through a comparative lens. Topics to be discussed include the experience of God; the Bible; how Christians and Jews understand their relationship to God and the world; worship and prayer; and the destiny of the created universe.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 385 Jesus the Jew in History (3 credits)

For centuries Jesus’ Jewish identity was ignored. To understand him and the movement that emerged after him it is essential to study him as a first century Jew. In this course we will engage scholarly research into the historical Jesus and the ancient Jewish context in which he lived. We will consider how he is presented in early Christian writings and analyze how his Jewishness was perceived in later Jewish and Christian thought. Finally, we will consider the important implications of this issue for Jewish-Christian relations.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 387 Jews&Chr: Entwined Histories (3 credits)

Why has the relationship between Christians and Jews been frequently hostile? How have the two communities influenced each other, for good and for ill? Is there a relationship between the Nazi genocide and historical church teaching? Has there been improvement in the two traditions' relationship in recent decades? What are today's pressing challenges? This course will examine all these questions.

Attributes: Diversity Course, Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 388 Jews&Chr: Bible Interpretation (3 credits)

Although Jews and Christians share many of the same scriptural books, their respective collections are differently organized and named. Christians refer to their collection as the "Old Testament," while Jews call their texts the "Tanakh" (an acronym for the Hebrew words for Teaching, Prophets, and Writings). Despite, or because of this commonality, Christians and Jews have often battled over these scriptures' meanings. This course explores the ways that Jews and Christians have interpreted key texts, separately and together, over two millennia of learning from and disputing with each other. It also examines why the Bible has been a source of conflict between the two groups, with a focus on certain key passages, and why that is currently changing - as evidenced in recent official Catholic instructions.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 389 Abrahamic Peoples I (3 credits)

Past, Present and Future I: The three monotheistic religions all originated in the Middle East. In their origins and spread to other parts of the world, their interactions formed a complex tapestry of theologies, rituals, texts and histories. This two- semester course surveys the origins, practices, beliefs, and interactions among the Muslim, Christians, and Jewish peoples. Both semesters are taught by a Jewish, a Christian, and a Muslim professor, all three of whom will be present for each class session. Fall semester, the class will explore the early beginnings of all three traditions up to the year 1492. Spring semester brings their stories from 1492 to the present. Certain overarching themes, topics, or questions will be considered in each era to illustrate the interlacing similarities and differences among the three communities in the past, in today's world, and with a view to future possibilities. Offered over two consecutive semesters for six credits, although students may choose to take only Fall or Spring semester for 3 credits.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 390 The Abrahamic Peoples II (3 credits)

Past, Present and Future II: The three monotheistic religions all originated in the Middle East. In their origins and spread to other parts of the world, their interactions formed a complex tapestry of theologies, rituals, texts, and histories. This two semester course surveys the origins, practices, beliefs, and interactions among the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish peoples. Both semesters are taught by a Jewish, a Christian, and a Muslim professor, all three of whom will be present for each class session. Fall semester, the class will explore the early beginnings of all three traditions up to the year 1492. Spring semester brings their stories from 1492 to the present. Certain overarching themes, topics, or questions will be considered in each era to illustrate the interlacing similarities and differences among the three communities in the past, in today's world, and with a view to future possibilities. Offered over two consecutive semesters for six credits, although students may choose to take only Fall or only Spring semester for 3 credits.

Attributes: Religious Difference Course, Undergraduate

THE 392 Directed Readings in Theology (3 credits)

A study of significant themes or issues in Theology or Religious Studies under the direction of faculty in the department. Frequent consultations and written reports are required. Prior written permission of the instructor and approval from the chair is required. Does not fulfill the Theology/Religious studies GEP.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 470 Special Topics in Theology (3 credits)

Topics will vary according to the semester in which the class is offered.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 491 Internship in Theology I (3 credits)

This course is an experiential learning experience in which students work 10 hours per week (total 130 hours) in an organization related to Religious Studies. The internship is a way to see how different areas of theological study are used "on the ground" in public, private, non-profit, community, and church-related organizations. In addition to their hours, students must keep a journal, meet regularly with their faculty adviser, and complete a final essay/presentation that connects their learning experience in the internship to their other coursework and the goals of the major. For more information and for the required application, please see the department chair. Does not fulfill the GEP.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 492 Internship in Theology II (3 credits)

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 493 Ind Research in Theology (3 credits)

Independent research and writing under the direction of faculty in the department. Prior written permission of the instructor and approval from the chair are required. Course may be taken twice for credit as the topic of research changes. Does not fulfill the Theology/Religious studies GEP.

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 494 Ind Research in Theology (3 credits)

Attributes: Undergraduate

THE 495 Theor & Meth in Study of Relg (3 credits)

A survey of a wide array of theories and methods employed in the modern study of religion, such as psychological, sociological, anthropological, phenomenological, feminist, sociobiological, and other approaches. Both classic and recent theoretical models will be discussed, with special interest in current methodological developments in the academic study of religion. Emphasis will be placed on direct engagement with the writings of the major theorists themselves. Permission of the Chair required.

Prerequisites: PHL 154 and (THE 153 or THE 154 or THE 155 or THE 221)

Attributes: Faith-Reason Course, Undergraduate