TH306 The Moral Theology of Pope John Paul II   (3.00 cr.)

Prerequisite: TH201. John Paul II is one of the most prolific popes in history and one of the greatest intellectuals of the twentieth century. This course explores his development as a philosopher and theologian, giving special focus to his distinctive and compelling view of the human person. Against that background, it examines his understanding of the nature and significance of the moral life in relation to persons and communities and in the context of the call of God to be fully human. Students study John Paul's insights about freedom, law, virtue, and grace; their relevance to his thinking about sex, marriage, and the family; reconciliation; abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment; work and Sabbath rest. Students also learn from critics of John Paul's moral theology who seek to build upon his work and contribute to a more wholly satisfying understanding of the moral life. IC (Fall only)