Module THEO2491: Tradition, Authority and Modernity: Catholic Thought from the 19th Century to Liberation Theology

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO2491: Tradition, Authority and Modernity: Catholic Thought from the 19th Century to Liberation Theology

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To give a broad survey of developments in Catholic theology in the 19th and 20th centuries
• To enable a serious engagement with the work of a few of the outstanding figures and movements in recent Catholic theology

Content

• Catholic thought since the middle of the 19th century has had a turbulent and fascinating history, involving dramatic and recurring struggles around issues of modernity and its relation to tradition and authority. In this module we will trace this development in broad terms as well as engaging in depth with some of the thinkers and bodies of literature which are its richest fruits. Topics to be covered may include Vatican I, the encyclical Aeterni Patris and the triumph of neo-scholasticism; the development of Catholic Social Teaching; the modernist crisis; the Nouvelle Théologie and the Ressourcement movement; Rahner, Balthasar and de Lubac; Vatican II and the struggle over its interpretation; liberation theology and its reception.

Learning Outcomes

• Broad knowledge of the development of Roman Catholic thought from the middle of the 19th century
• A good understanding of the theology of selected Catholic thinkers and movements

• Interpretation of theological texts
• Evaluation of theological debates in context

• Skills in the acquisition and interpretation of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of ideas.
• Skills in dispassionate reflection on highly charged debates

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
• Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.
• Summative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
• Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

<enter text as appropriate for the module>

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University