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DR303G: THEOLOGY IN A DIVIDED WORLD: CONFLICT, PEACE, AND TRANSFORMATION (2021-2022)

Last modified: 31 May 2022 13:05


Course Overview

This course explores the nature of various forms of division and conflict in the contemporary world, and the contribution of theology to community enhancement, peace-building and transformation. Grounded in case studies of issues that divide societies (e.g. Brexit, refugees, political radicalisation, race and ethnicity), the course analyses causes of division as well as (theological) models of protest, forgiveness and transformation, with the question whether reconciliation is possibly or even desirable.  

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 3
Term First Term Credit Points 30 credits (15 ECTS credits)
Campus Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr Katie Cross

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

  • Any Undergraduate Programme (Studied)
  • Programme Level 3

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

In a world that seems to be rapidly fragmenting and descending into multiple forms of brokenness and hatred, there is a need to create spaces for peaceable action-oriented ways of thinking and reflection on peacemaking, spirituality, conflict transformation and social justice. Contemporary ways of thinking have brought about minimal virtues of tolerance and inclusion. These virtues are being stretched in all kinds of areas of life across the globe. This course will explore the limitations of the contemporary settlement in areas relating to racial justice, disability, community cohesion, politics, inter-religious dialogue, health, ecclesial organisations, and society at large. The course is rooted in Practical Theology understood as ‘theological reflection on church and world with a view to initiating creative change and spiritually oriented transformation.’ As such it presumes that issues around peace and conflict transformation require critical interdisciplinary thinking, theological reflection, personal encounter, spiritual engagement and a holistic approach that recognises that change and transformation require engagement at multiple levels.  The course will look at how we can enable and actualise the spiritual capital of religious communities in the movement from toleration to transformation, from hatred to peace and from inclusion to belonging.  


Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

First Attempt

2,500 word essay (50%)
Case study (40%)
Case study presentation (10%)

Resit

Resubmission of course work

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualEvaluateBe able to evaluate some primary themes and approaches to peace and reconciliation within the field of theology
ConceptualUnderstandBe able to reflect on the nature and role of division and conflict in contemporary society
ConceptualAnalyseBe able to analyse differing theological approaches to reconciliation.

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