UE: Religious Ethics

Catalog description

Jesus told his followers to "love your enemies" and "turn the other cheek" when struck. So why do so many of his followers carry weapons and wage war? If Christians are called to be like Jesus, then shouldn't we ask "Who would Jesus kill?" This course examines the various Christian traditions regarding war, peace, and the use of violence. By looking at the moral principles and the history underlying pacifist, holy war, and just war perspectives, the course encourages students to assess their own assumptions and commitments. Further, the use of primary source arguments and case studies enable students to make informed claims about Christian views of war. Lastly, the course places these arguments in conversation with contemporary Jewish and Muslim debates about violence, war, and peace.