Capitalism & Christianity (Seminar)

Course Description

From trade tariffs to the cost of living, addressing key issues in our society requires an understanding of today’s dominant economic system. This seminar offers the opportunity to critically reflect on the development of modern capitalism. It also equips students to identify the role of Christian thought in relation to economics, with particular attention to the doctrine of providence and the method of natural theology. We begin with the birth of modern economics in the Scottish Enlightenment, focusing on the works of Adam Smith. From that basis we trace major concepts in thinking about capitalism, from Karl Marx on commodity fetishism to Joseph Schumpeter on creative destruction. We then engage with leading Christian thinkers who bring theological ethics to bear on the dynamics of capitalism in the 21st century. This seminar is open to anyone who wants to strengthen their theological engagement with the ways that economics shapes our lives at both societal and individual levels.

NOTE: This course has a maximum enrollment of 12 students.

To get into a priority enrollment course, you must register by the early registration deadline (see Important Dates) and must submit a Priority Enrollment Course Request (available through the "Additional Registration Requests" section of the Registration menu in REGIS) after completing your registration. Class lists will be determined within a week after the early registration deadline, and you will be notified by email shortly thereafter. First priority will be given to students who need a course for the program to which they have been admitted, and who have registered by the early registration deadline.