PHIL W10 Moral Expectations in Film. From an early age all people learn that certain types of behavior are morally expected of them. Morality has its expectations, and it is a high priority that people learn what these expectations are. It is also a high priority that a knowledge of these expectations is passed on to each new generation. The course focuses on this rather neglected area of the moral terrain. The phenomenon of moral expectation is studied in its relationship with more familiar concepts like moral duty, moral responsibility, and supererogation. It is also examined in the context of the Christian life. About eight motion pictures will be shown illustrating moral expectation. Evaluation is based on a research paper and several short written assignments. One previous course in Philosophy is recommended but not required. G. Mellema. 8:30 a.m. to noon.
PHIL W11 Peaceable Kingdom. Though stewardship of the animal kingdom is one of the primary responsibilities accorded to human beings in the Christian creation narrative, the question of how best to respect the creatures under our care is one that Christians too often neglect to ask. This omission is unfortunate, given the mounting evidence of fallenness in the social and commercial practices that presently govern our relationships to animals. While large-scale animal farming has increased consumer convenience, this convenience comes at a cost, and not just to animals. Our current food system is proving to have negative, if unintended, consequences for the environment, local and global commerce and agriculture in both rural and urban communities, and public health. In view of these considerations, the purpose of this course is two-fold: first, to gain insight into the problem through a survey of the theological, moral, environmental, and socio-economic issues surrounding the treatment of animals and the allocation of natural and human resources by our current food system and other industries that use animals; and second, to take the initial steps toward becoming agents of renewal by discerning an array of concrete approaches to addressing these problems (e.g., legislating for less intensive, more sustainable food systems, community supported agriculture, cooking and eating lower on the food chain, exploring “locavorism,” vegetarianism and veganism, animal compassion advocacy, etc.). Students will be graded on their responses to six journal assignments, a short position paper, and a final essay as well as on their participation in class discussion, events, and fieldtrips. M. Halteman. 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
IDIS W15 L'Abri Fellowship. Course dates: January 3-28. Fee: $2500. L. Hardy. Off campus.
IDIS W45 Building Communities in Uganda. Course dates: January 4-24. Fee: $3350. D. Hoekema. Off campus.