Thinking Politically with Kierkegaard
Widely known as the father of existentialism, Søren Kierkegaard approached the Christian faith as a calling worthy of a person’s entire life: Christian identity is something to be continuously chosen and authentically lived into, not passively assumed within Christendom. This seminar will be a politically-inflected introduction to Kierkegaard’s thought, as we examine selections of Kierkegaard’s playful writings. We will ask how his stringent critiques of cultural Christianity in nineteenth-century Denmark apply today. Particularly relevant will be Kierkegaard’s insight into the effects that crowds and modern communication have on selfhood.
Who Should Attend
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Anyone who is theologically curious - whether you are a Christian lay leader, pastor, retired pastor, or someone of little to no religious affiliation. All are welcome! We anticipate meaningful interfaith encounters and engagement across the spectrum of spiritual commitment. |
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Lovers of humanities programs and academic discussions. |
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Christian lay leaders who are considering seminary. |
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Alumni of Christian schools. |
After participating in this seminar, you will:
- Have a familiarity with Kierkegaard: Have a familiarity with Kierkegaard’s life, writings, and philosophical ideas.
- Understand the Absolute Paradox: Gaining insight into Kierkegaard’s concept of the tension between faith and reason.
- Appreciate Kierkegaard's notion of selfhood: Selfhood is a dynamic journey of becoming, which makes it essential for contemporary politics and society.
How It Works
Session Dates:Monday, April 21, 2025
Monday, April 28, 2025
Monday, May 5, 2025
Monday, May 12, 2025
Duration/Time:7:00-9:00 p.m. ET
7:00-9:00 p.m. ET
7:00-9:00 p.m. ET
7:00-9:00 p.m. ET
Price:$399 for four sessions
Facilitator
Dr. Heather C. Ohaneson
Dr. Heather C. Ohaneson (M.Div., PTS ’24; Ph.D., Columbia University ’13; B.A., Barnard College ’03) is passionate about the Great Books tradition and its intersection with issues of faith and life. A full-time pastor, Heather finds rejuvenation in reading, studying, and discussing philosophy. She brings nearly twenty years of college-level teaching experience to this seminar.