Are We Genetically Inclined to Be Materialistic? — New research suggests certain cultures place a brake on what social scientists call “the endowment effect,” whereas capitalistic societies put it on steroids. This 5 min. audio clip might be used to explore a biblical anthropology, the nature of community, or other themes related to human nature.
Science as Bits and Pieces
Science as Bits and Pieces — Philip Kitcher doubts the Grand Theory claims for science. His essay argues that science is not metaphysics but pragmatics and that the case for a seamless science is highly overrated, particularly by those who would like science to supplant religion. See Can Science Explain Everything? for a follow-up discussion.
A Christian Musician with More Questions Than Answers
A Christian Musician with More Questions Than Answers — In the fluid domain of music, pop culture, and CCM, Morning Edition offers this 6 min. audio profile of Josh Garrels, who says his music is “trying to peel back layers and find out where is God in the midst of this city that I live […]
Celibacy as Political Resistance
Celibacy as Political Resistance — This essay by Grant Kaplan at St. Louis University discusses a two kingdoms view for Christian peculiarity, papal primacy, and clergy celibacy advanced in the 19th century. Agree or disagree, this account prompts reflection on the church’s strategies for in-reach and outreach. (Spiritual descendants of Stephan and Walther may find […]
The Idea of a Christian College Reexamined
The Idea of a Christian College Reexamined — Todd Ream at Taylor University and Perry Glanzer at Baylor University have a new book out, The Idea of a Christian College: A Reexamination for Today’s University (Cascade). It should be read by anyone with an interest in the state of Christian higher ed.
Reading the Bible With Martin Luther
Reading the Bible With Martin Luther: An Introductory Guide — A new book by prominent Reformation historian Timothy Wengert who introduces the basic components of Martin Luther’s theology of the Bible and examines Luther’s contributions to present-day biblical interpretation.
HHS “Relgious Employer” Definition
HHS “Religious Employer” Definition — GetReligion has been following the news accounts of the ACA cases regarding health care coverage, religion, and the current three-tier policy language. Here is another installment.
Celebrating Christmas Then and Now
Celebrating Christmas, Then and Now — Nine-in-ten Americans say they celebrate Christmas, and three-quarters say they believe in the virgin birth of Jesus. But only about half see Christmas mostly as a religious holiday, while one-third view it as more of a cultural holiday.
An Atheist Photographer Focuses on Faith
An Atheist Photographer Focuses on Faith — “Is it the building itself that gives the space a sacred quality, or is holiness derived from the devotions of worshipers, present and past, who have occupied the space?” So asks a thoughtful atheist about worship space. Six photos and a brief, respectful discussion.
Polygamy Law Weakened
Polygamy Law Weakened — A federal judge has struck down parts of Utah’s anti-polygamy law as unconstitutional in a case brought by a polygamous star of a reality television series. Months after the Supreme Court bolstered rights of same-sex couples, the Utah case could open a new frontier in the nation’s recognition of once-prohibited relationships.
