| Course Description:
Politics and Christian Civilization I: The Ancient and Medieval World
The Birth of Christ marks a radical turning point in world history; it is the basis of a new foundation that has effected every cultural sinew and socio-political fiber of Western Civilization. For better or for worse, the modern world is on the verge of significant economic, political, social, and cultural change toward a new civilization; the only question is on what foundation will this “new civilization” be built? This course is based on the premise that Christians and all men and women of “good will” should prepare to take their place in the social arena guided by gospel principles and the natural law (faith and reason) for the building of a Christian Civilization. The course provides a philosophical analysis of the essence and purpose of politics and an historical survey both as (1) an account of how we have arrived at this point in our human journey and (2) as an attempt to study didactic models (Greek, Roman, Jewish and Catholic) that are helpful in thinking about and contributing to our Christian patrimony.
The course begins with what Pope John Paul II, referred to as the proper starting point for study of the social question, that is, a correct definition of man (Christian Anthropology) which involves, before all else, knowledge of the human person, body and soul. After examining the question, “What is Man?” an overview of ethics, which covers intellectual, moral, and spiritual virtue necessary for human development, is provided as a necessary ancillary to politics. The study of ethics reaches its terminus in the question of justice (social, distributive, and commutative) which serves as the transition ground to politics. Political topics include the structure, function, and purposes of government, what is the best structure of government and the best form, the relationship between politics and religion, sovereignty, Constitutionalism, and the nature, types, and role of law.
The course ends with a summary of the enduring ethical, political, and social-cultural principles that led from classical Judaic, Roman and Greek Civilization to the birth of Medieval Christendom. These enduring principles and historical examples are necessary prerequisites for the further study and understanding of their dissolution presented in the second semester. They must be mastered by anyone who wishes to successfully participate in politics and social reconstruction in the new millennium.
Course requirements: Mid Term and Final Exam
Class participation
Reading quizzes and 2 short reflection papers
Course evaluation: Students will be assigned a final grade on the basis of the three exams, class participation, reading quizzes, and reflection papers as approximately indicated by the following. For exceptional merit, grade assignments may be adjusted at the discretion of the professor.
Mid-term exam 33%
Final exam 33%
Class participation, quizzes, papers 33%
Contact: Students may contact the instructor at dmarzak@kolbefoundation.org to schedule an appointment for advising, questions, or course issues in his online office during scheduled office hours.
Attendance: Students are required to attend each class meeting, be attentive in class, and respectfully interact with the views of others. More than two absences will affect the final grade.
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