Chrysostom & Social Justice

Catalog description

St. John Chrysostom is justly celebrated for his intense concern for the poor and disenfranchised. However, some of his views (such as his attitude toward women) are written off as being due to the limitations of time and culture. Using English translations of Chrysostom's homilies, this course will examine his views on the social fabric in relation to his overarching concern that his flock will attain the kingdom of heaven and to his understanding of what it means to be human. The students will be invited to examine their conceptions of social justice in light of their own basic presuppositions and understandings of humanity. The course will be discussion driven. Evaluation will be based on weekly written reflections, participation in classroom discussions, and one research paper.