Ancient Faith, Modern World

Jocelyn McWhirter, Ph.D., Stanley S. Kresge Professor of Religious Studies, Albion College. phone 517-629-0268, email jmcwhirter@albion.edu. Tuesdays. 2 – 4 p.m. May 2, 9, 16, 23. In person. Ludington 113. Class limit: 35.

Coorinator: Donna Ward. Email: dward@albion.edu

Who are we, and how did we get here? Since most scientists agree that the world was created with a Big Bang and that we evolved over billions of years, how do Jews and Christians understand the traditional belief that God created everything in seven days? Why do so many people believe in some sort of higher power yet differ so much on the details? In general, how and to what extent have Jews and Christians adapted their ancient faith to a modern world? In this course, we will consider various answers to these and other questions as presented in the Bible as well as by modern (and postmodern) scientists, philosophers, and religious thinkers. We may or may not discover the truth! Our objective is rather to turn the questions inside out, to understand the perspectives of others, and to appreciate the multi-faceted adventures of Pi Patel.

We will read selections from the Bible (New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition, New Revised Standard Version, New International Version, or New American Bible preferred). We will also read the novel Life of Pi by Yann Martel (Orlando: Harcourt, 2001) as well as primary texts available online.