"For God and Country?"
Thinking about Religion and Citizenship
Professor Erik Owens
Theology 486
Spring 2007
Are patriotism and faith compatible? What is the difference between a good person and a good citizen? (And can we be one but not the other?) What are the limits of religious tolerance in a diverse society? When, if ever, is civil disobedience required?
This course explores the religious-ethical dimensions of citizenship, with particular attention to the points at which religious and political allegiances conflict (or appear to conflict). Drawing upon diverse faith traditions, historical periods and geographic regions, we will consider the nature of this conflict, attempts to resolve it (in theory and practice), and contemporary issues that exemplify it, including patriotism, civic education, tolerance and civil disobedience.