Franciscan Theology & Philosophy of the Environment
Module Code: 702FTPE Credits: 20 Contact Hours: 20 Level: 7 Lecturer:
Syllabus
This module seeks to bring about an in depth knowledge of a particular form of Christian theological and philosophical tradition and its implications for the environmental concerns that predominate contemporary ecological reflection.
Drawing largely on the spiritual tradition inspired by St. Francis of Assisi, the module examines current environmental and ecological issues through the application of the theological and philosophical style developed by Franciscan theologians who drew their important insights from that spirituality.
The module begins with a reflection on the biblical sources, primarily the creation myths of Genesis, and Ps.8; 29 and seeks to confront head on the use of Genesis by Lynn White and the misunderstandings that has arisen from it.
From there, the module examines the concerns for and approaches to understandings of nature and the environment in the writings of St. Francis, the theology of St. Bonaventure, the metaphysics of Duns Scotus, and the environmental theological/philosophical reflections of contemporary Franciscan eco-theologians/philosophers that are emerging in the area of approaches to Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation
Assessment
5,000 word essay
Knowledge and Understanding
- demonstrate a critical understanding and competence in the theological and philosophical thought of the Franciscan Tradition in relation to discussion fo issues related to creation, environment, ecological ethics.
Be able to demonstrate an in depth understanding and competence in:
- reading and using primary texts both critically and empathetically
- evaluating the significance of the Franciscan contribution to debate on environmental/ecological issues through focusing on the theological and philosophical reflections of the Franciscan Masters
- critically but fairly analyse other philosophical/ethical approaches to major issues surrounding reflection on environmental and ecological issues today and show the contribution made by contemporary Franciscan eco-theologians/philosophers.
Subject Specific Skills
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
- show a detailed knowledge of both the theological and metaphysical basis for a Franciscan approach to environmental ethics, especially through Bonaventure’s emanationism, and Univocity of Being and differentiation of common natures in Duns Scotus’ ontology.
- develop a deep insight into the way in which the theological/philosophical writings of the Franciscan intellectual tradition have reflected on environmental and ecological issues through their approaches to creation.
- critically approach and reflect on how environmentalists use the Biblical texts, especially Genesis and Psalms through an examination of key Hebrew terms
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