Between Tragedy and Redemption: The Political Philosophy of Reinhold Niebuhr

Catalog description

In the turbulent waters of the twentieth century, the United States experienced profound philosophical and cultural critiques of its cherished system of liberal democracy. The crisis of world wars, developing economic inequality, and spiritual malaise raised doubts about the progressive character of liberalism. This course offers a captivating journey into the heart of these critiques and the temperament of the time. At the center of our exploration stands Reinhold Niebuhr, a towering figure whose profound insights into the complexities of human nature, power, and justice continue to resonate today. Through a sustained reading of Niebuhr, we will uncover the challenges, contradictions, and possibilities that liberal democracy faced during this transformative period in the United States. We will discuss Niebuhr alongside other defenders and critics of liberalism.