Faith, Work & Economics

Course Description

Economics has replaced theology as the master language of Western culture, yet this hugely important field is often confusing and intimidating for the uninitiated. This course will give you a basic grounding in key economic issues—including tariffs, inflation, inequality, AI, and workism—but will also connect economics to individual and corporate discipleship and help you think theologically about the economy and economic questions.

During this course we will attempt to build a coherent theology of economic and work life. Students will be part of this process. Together, we’ll consider the complex historical, theological, and scientific issues involved in the relationship between economics and theology. We’ll pay special attention to the interaction between the individual and organizational issues taken up by the contemporary faith–work movement on the one hand, and the system issues that economists study on the other. As we grapple with intellectual issues, we’ll also keep an eye on the practical problems and dilemmas of Christian discipleship in a culture shaped by economics.

This course aims to facilitate better discussions of economic issues, even—or especially—across differences. The lecturers, Kara and Paul, disagree on many issues of politics and religion, yet remain friends! Regardless of how much you know, or don’t know, about economics, you’re invited to join them for this conversation.