THL326 Theological Ethics (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Theology (THEOL)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
This subject explores the connections between Christian theology and practice, philosophical and theological ethics, and ethical discernment in contemporary society. It examines the biblical, theological, ecclesial, philosophical and scientific resources for Christian ethical reflection and action. Distinctive features of Christian ethical reflection, moral judgements and moral practices are surveyed from various theological and historical perspectives. The subject also considers a range of ethical issues from areas such as politics, economics, war, the environment, medicine and sexuality.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 2 | |
|---|---|
| Internal | Canberra |
| Internal | United Theological College |
| Distance | Canberra |
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: THL326
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Assumed Knowledge:
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to give a critical account of the theoretical nature of theological ethics;
- be able to identify and reflect critically upon the central biblical, theological and ecclesial resources for Christian ethical discernment and action;
- be able to demonstrate familiarity with philosophical and scientific resources for Christian ethics;
- be able to identify the main features of the Christian tradition of moral and ethical argument;
- be able to apply the resources of Christian theology and ethical thought to a range of contemporary issues, and reflect critically on their own ethical judgements; and
- be able to demonstrate self-guided learning, including research, writing and communication skills.
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- Is there a Christian ethic? Topics will include: the nature of theological ethics; the formation of the moral self, including the relationship between ethics and spirituality; and ethics, practice and Christian community.
- Sources of theological ethics in the Christian tradition, including: Scripture; ecclesial community and practice (including liturgical practices, tradition); philosophical theories of ethics and their relationship to Christian approaches; and the role of the empirical sciences.
- Discerning a Christian ethic in the contemporary world, including topics from the following areas: politics, public theology; biotechnology and medicine, conceptions of the human person; war, violence, evil and suffering; the environment, justice and consumption; and sexuality.
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.