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THL541 Critical Studies In Ecotheology (16)

Abstract

This subject examines how a range of Christian theologies respond to the particular public issues surrounding the current global ecological crisis. It looks at various dimensions of the crisis and seeks to provide a methodology by which its elements can be understood theologically. The subject includes the development of an ecological hermeneutic of Scripture and a consideration of how selected doctrines are reframed in order to construct a Christian 'ecotheology'.

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Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: THL541
Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Theology

Enrolment restrictions

Master of Theology
Related subject(s)
THL496 THL496 is the previous version of this subject at the 400 level

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to analyse critically the ecological message found within Christian scripture and tradition, with particular reference to its potential ambiguity;
  • be able to discuss critically the relative merits of several typologies that have shaped Christian ecotheology;
  • be able to discuss critically a range of theological responses to the current ecological situation;
  • be able to analyse critically the manner in which an ecological concern informs a number of selected core Christian doctrines;
  • be able to evaluate critically the way in which Christian ecotheology functions as Public Theology;
  • be able to discuss Christian ecotheology in the contemporary setting of Australian ecological concerns.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • The ecological crisis, in both its global and local dimensions;
  • The ecological heritage of the Christian tradition;
  • An ecological reading of Scripture;
  • An ecological reading of creation and the Sabbath;
  • An ecological reading of the image of God and sin;
  • An ecological reading of the person and work of the cosmic Christ;
  • The shape and distinctive emphases of Evangelical, Orthodox, and Feminist Ecotheologies;
  • The particular ecotheology of a nominated theologian;
  • The public place and perception of a Christian Ecotheology with particular reference to Australia;
  • An ecotheological reading of a particular case study;
  • The intersection of ecotheology and congregational life.

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The information contained in the 2015 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 01 October 2015. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.