Conservatism

Catalog description

Social or 'moral' conservatives are rare birds in the modern university. Who are these people and why do they think as they do? This course will explore the historical and intellectual foundations of this branch of conservatism in the Western world. Topics will include religion and politics, views of 'modernity' and liberalism, the value of tradition, human nature and purpose, social justice, marriage, sexuality, abortion, family, natural law, the sanctity of human life, religious freedom, constitutional law, the basis of rights, free markets, and conservatism in higher education. Authors will include philosophers, theologians, and political theorists. Lively discussion will be encouraged.