Environment General Courses (ENVIRON)

taught in Durham

298.42 Spirituality and Ecology: Religious Perspectives on Environmental Ethics

Spring 2008, Wednesdays, 4:245-6:25, Levine Science Research Center

This course will examine a variety of spiritual and religious perspectives as they relate to the practice of environmental ethics. (It is not assumed or required that students belong to any particular religious or spiritual tradition). Special attention will be given to a fundamental and compelling question: How may we as human beings develop a mutually enhancing relationship with the earth? Students will be encouraged to examine and clarify the basic values, assumptions, attitudes and beliefs that underlie our human relationship with the natural world, with special attention given to the evaluation of religious and spiritual concepts and practices in light of the ecological crisis of our time. Through readings, interactive lectures, small group discussions, personal journaling, interfaith dialogue and research-reflection papers, participants will explore spiritual and religious insights which support a life that is ecologically responsible and socially just.

The course goal is to assist students in developing and articulating a coherent and functional personal and social environmental ethic which includes religious and spiritual values as these may inform, inspire, and motivate attitudes and behaviors in relation to the natural world.

Instructor: Dr. Ted Purcell, Campus Minister and a member of Duke’s Religious Life Staff, advisor to the Interfaith Dialogue Project (a recognized religious organization) and a member of Duke Chapel’s interfaith Faith Council.

For more information: email TedLPurcell@aol.com or call 919-475-5324.

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