College of Arts & Sciences Catalog
General Studies
General Education at Bethel University requires that students take several specific courses along with their choice of courses from various categories. Most of the courses listed below fulfill one of these course or category requirements; however, this is not an exhaustive list. The letter appended to a course number indicates the general education category to which it belongs. See “The General Education Program” and “Pillars of the General Education Curriculum” in the Academic Information section of this catalog for a further description of the purpose and requirements of the General Education program at Bethel University.
Courses
GES106 • Introduction to the Liberal Arts (fall, spring) 1 credit
Introduces students to a liberal arts education at Bethel as a foundation for scholarship, leadership, and service in a changing world. Orients students to campus resources related to academics and encourages the development of personal, academic, and relationship skills needed to be a successful college student.
GES108 • Introduction to Life at Bethel (fall, spring) 1 credit
Introduces transfer students to a liberal arts education at Bethel as a foundation for scholarship, leadership, and service in a changing world. Together students explore common issues of transition, personal strengths, and community. Students are oriented to resources (i.e., Bethel Library, essential technology, academic tutoring, etc.) to support and enhance the educational experience at Bethel.
GES109 • Orientation to College Studies (fall) 2 credits
Students understand and improve their approach to learning to enhance success in college. Strategies developed in this course are directly applied to learning in the Christianity and Western Culture course as well as other courses taken during fall term. Taught concurrently with Introduction to the Liberal Arts (GES106). Prerequisites: Consent of instructor, enrollment in Christianity and Western Culture (GES130).
GES110 • College Writing (fall, spring) 3 credits
Focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary for successful college-level academic research and writing. Emphasizes writing as a process that includes planning/prewriting, drafting, revision, and editing, and affords multiple experiences of the process. Topics include thesis formulation, development, and support; conventions of writing (grammar, usage, and mechanics); ownership of information and creative work (issues of plagiarism, copyright, and ethical management of information); and information literacy competencies. Students are required to perform in-depth research that involves gathering, reading, and evaluating information, and to write a formal research paper that synthesizes information from a variety of properly documented sources.
GES115N • Grimme’s Fairy Tales—Yesterday and Today (occasionally interim) 3 credits
The fairy tales of the Grimme Brothers are analyzed in their original forms and in the more modern revisionist forms, including film versions. Historical influences on the tales will be examined and compared with contemporary influences that determine self-identity.
GES125 • Introduction to the Creative Arts (fall, interim, spring) 4 credits
Introduces the creative arts and highlights their crucial role in human experience. Art forms included each semester are chosen from music, visual arts, theatre, dance, literature, or film, and highlight their crucial role in human experience. Creative works spanning stylistic, social, and historical contexts are examined in light of such issues as relationships, religion, death/despair, and humor. Students experience and critically interact with creative works and reflect on them from a Christian worldview, with the goal of developing literacy in artistic language as a tool for exploration and aesthetic interpretation and evaluation.
GES130 • Christianity and Western Culture (fall, spring) 4 credits
Seeks to help students understand the key movements that have influenced the lives of people in Europe and North America up through the Enlightenment. Students read with insight and empathy the writings and lives of those who have influenced the course of world societies. Prepares students to appreciate and evaluate the diverse ways in which Christians have interacted with Western culture by shaping, absorbing, and criticizing the culture of the West.
| The Humanities Program |
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The Humanities Program is a four-course sequence consisting of GES145, GES146, GES245, and GES246. These courses must be taken in order and replace five courses in the Personal Development, Biblical Foundations, and Global Perspectives pillars of Bethel’s General Education program: GES110 College Writing, GES125 Introduction to the Creative Arts, GES130 Christianity and Western Culture, THE201 Christian Theology, and a Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L) course. To derive full benefit from the Humanities Program, students should complete the entire program: Western Humanities in Christian Perspective I-IV. See the Academic Information section of this catalog for further information. Contact the director of the Humanities Program for details. Note: Students entering Bethel in fall 2009 should be aware that the third and fourth courses in this program (GES245, 246) will not be offered in 2010-11. By completing GES145 and 146, students replace GES125 Introduction to the Creative Arts and GES130 Christianity and Western Culture. GES145, 146 • Western Humanity in Christian (fall, spring) 4 credits/semesterPerspective I and II: The Greco-Roman World through the Enlightenment The two-course sequence focuses on the great writings and works of art, music, and theatre from the Greeks through the European Enlightenment. It emphasizes in-depth reading, discussion, and analysis of texts and works of art to teach how Christians have shaped and responded to civilization. Students experience artistic performances or exhibitions in historical context. Likely figures for study include Plato, Augustine, Dante, Michelangelo, Luther, Shakespeare, Mozart, and Austen. GES145 is a prerequisite for GES146. Completing both courses (GES145 and GES146) replaces the requirements of Christianity and Western Culture and Introduction to the Creative Arts. GES245, 246 • Western Humanity in Christian Perspective III and IV Not offered in 2010-11(fall, spring) 4 credits/semesterThe two-course sequence focuses on the great writings and works of art from the American Founding to the present time. Emphasizes how Christians have shaped and responded to civilization. Likely figures and subjects for study include slave narratives, Lincoln, American jazz, Marx, Bonhoeffer, Flannery O’Connor, and the impressionists. GES146 is a prerequisite for GES245. GES245 is a prerequisite for GES246. Completing both courses (GES245 and GES246) replaces the requirement for College Writing, Christian Theology, and Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L). |
GES178N • Creative Evangelism (interim) 3 credits
Students develop a biblical and theological foundation of lifestyle evangelism. Analysis of various methods and tools of evangelism. Emphasis on opportunities to develop and sharpen ministry skills through personal testimonies, gospel presentations, and field experiences in a wide variety of settings.
GES200 • Ministry Practicum (spring) 1 credit
Exploration of pastoral ministry as a career through job shadowing. Reflection on area for pastoral ministry. Component of Antioch Way Pre-Seminary Initiatives.
GES202U • Ukrainian Culture and Language (occasionally interim) 3 credits
An introduction to Ukrainian culture, language, and history from the origins of the Kyivan Rus to the present. An examination of politics, language, literature, music, art, religion, and persecution. Focuses on modern Ukrainian society, culture, and the daily life of Ukrainians, as well as basic spoken and written Ukrainian. Prerequisite: GES130 or GES145, 146.
GES208 • Human Sexuality (spring) 3 credits
An examination of sexuality through the life cycle, focusing on the nature of sexual and reproductive functioning, sexual self-understanding, sexual dimensions of interpersonal relationships, and ethical dimensions of sexuality.
GES209U • Kenyan Culture (occasionally interim) 3 credits
An introduction to Kenya’s culture, history (1895-1995), ethnic diversity, and language. The course focuses on modern Kenyan society including complexities involving ethnicity and other social issues, as well as basic spoken and written Swahili. Prerequisite: GES130 or GES145, 146.
GES301K • Global Environmental Changes: Humans as Agents of Transformations (fall, spring) 3 credits
Humankind has drastically altered the biosphere over the past 300 years. This course examines the processes of transformations in human populations, land, water, and climate over the course of this time. Discussion of how these transformations affect our lives and relationship with nature and how we should respond to these transformations. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES302K • Lethal Microbes (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
Despite amazing scientific and technical successes in medicine in the last century, diseases like AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria confront us today with both national and global healthcare crises. Living with the lethal microbes responsible for these diseases requires careful inquiry about these organisms and their wide impact on human society. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES303K • Genetics, Ethics, and the Law (interim, spring) 3 credits
Study of the ethical and legal dilemmas created by recent advances in biotechnology. Focus on the question of what direction the law should take, specifically in the areas of patent, family, and criminal law. Exploration of the struggle between the Christian worldview, these rapid changes in science, and society’s resolution of the questions these changes produce. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES305K • HIV/AIDS: Anatomy of a Pandemic (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Exploration of the history, biology, and social and global impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic since discovery of the human immunodeficiency virus in 1983. Evaluation of technological advances that have generated anti-retroviral therapies, technological challenges that have prevented vaccine development, and social factors related to availability of medical treatment. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES306K • Nuclear Energy: Past and Present (occasionally) 3 credits
Basic scientific principles underlying nuclear fission and fusion, along with a survey of the history of nuclear weapons and reactors from 1935 to the present. Topics include weapon construction and design, delivery systems, and nuclear deterrence, along with current arms reduction agreements and waste problems. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES307K • Natural Resources: Use Them but Don’t Lose Them (spring) 3 credits
A consideration of the use and management of natural resources and their impact on society and vice versa. Primary resources considered include forests, agricultural land, and geologic/mineral resources. GPS and GIS technologies are spotlighted as key management tools. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES308K • Genomic Archaeology and Scientific Revolution (interim) 3 credits
Advances in DNA technology have led to the sequencing of whole genomes, including the human genome, and to a revolution in science. Questions of this course include: “What is this technology?”, “How does it work?”, and “What does it mean to you and me?” Applications related to diabetes, cancer, forensics, genetic engineering, and the nature of life itself are discussed. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES309K • Biology of the Mind (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Survey of contemporary technologies and studies of brain structure and function and their relation to cognitive abilities and emotion. Introduction to modern technologies of brain mapping such as MRI, PET, and CAT Scans. Combines neuroscience, philosophy of self, psychology, linguistics, and sociobiology. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES310K • Human Impacts on Coral Reefs (interim) 3 credits
Travels to the Philippines and Hawaii to study exotic coral reefs and associated environmental issues. Coral reefs worldwide are currently subject to severe anthropogenic stress. Allows students to get in the water to see reefs firsthand, to explore the science and human technology relating to coral reefs, and meet individuals who are working to address environmental problems. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course. (Carries cross-credit in biology and environmental studies.)
GES311K • Forensics: The Science of Crime (occasionally interim) 3 credits
An introduction to the roles that biology, chemistry, physics, and psychology play in criminal investigations. Discovery, identification, and comparison of physical evidence using various current techniques. Discussion of the processes and limitations of scientific knowledge. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) Course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES312G • Disability and Society (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Exploration of ideologies of disability including medical, moral, rehabilitative, and minority approaches. Identification of the social, economic, religious, and other barriers faced by people with disabilities. International perspectives on disability, as well as the concept of a “disability culture.” Experiential learning components included. Prerequisites: GES130 or GES145, 146; Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L) course or GES245; World Cultures (U) course.
GES314K • Biotechnology (occasionally spring) 3 credits
Biotechnology, or the production of technology through the manipulation of biological systems and its influences on many areas of our lives. Applications of biotechnology such as drug production, human cloning, gene therapy, stem cells, and reproductive technologies, as well as their impact on society are examined. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES315K • Brain Research Technology and Gender Differences (occasionally interim) 3 credits
A review of gender differences revealed by recent brain mapping and scanning technology. MRI, fMRI, PET, and CAT Scans reveal different aspects of brain structure and function. Several other neurologic, hormonal, and genetic technologies will also be reviewed as they relate to physiological and behavioral analysis. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES318KZ • Ecuador and the GalápagosIslands: Natural History and Future Prospects (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Travel from base in Quito throughout Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands, surveying the land, climate, plants, animals, homes, transportation, and industries, noting especially the impact of human culture, presence, and activities. Sites include the Amazon rainforest, Andean cloud forests, volcanic mountains, highlands, towns, cities, and the Galápagos Islands. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course. (Carries cross-credit in biology and environmental studies.)
GES321K • Human Genetics (fall, spring) 3 credits
Review of modern genetic history, principles, and technology as applied to humans. Includes discussion of classical Mendelian genetics, probability calculation, pedigree analysis, heritability analysis, and cytogenetics. Emphasis on more recent technologies of gene sequencing, genomics, gene therapy, genetic engineering, screening, and early life (embryo) manipulations, stem cell and cloning risks and benefits, among other issues surrounding human genetics. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES322K • Cancer: Science and Society (interim, spring) 3 credits
The biology of cancer; the technologies of cancer diagnosis and treatment; and some social, family, and personal impacts of this disease. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES324K • Greening the Built Environment (occasionally fall) 3 credits
A study and critique of the “built” environment: our homes, places of work and leisure, transportation systems, and food systems. Development of understanding and commitment for designing, living in, and working in our dwellings and communities in ways that demonstrate stewardship toward the creation. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES325 • The Planet Earth: Environmental Responsibility and Christian Stewardship (occasionally) 3 credits
Current state of our planet’s ecology. The balance of nature, its perturbation by the human species, and the possible solutions to the friction between humans and the rest of the biological world. Major emphasis on Christian responsibility for God’s creation. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES326K • Economic Botany (interim) 3 credits
Review of the history, principles, and technology used to domesticate and improve food and beverage crop, lumber, cloth and rope fiber, medicinal, and herbal plants for human use. Emphasis on modern technologies to increase quality, shelf life, transportability, yield, pest resistance, growing season, and soil type tolerances. Includes technologies such as genetic engineering, hybridizing and breeding that raise ethical issues about their long-term impact on humans, other species, and the environment. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES328K • Nutrition: The Total Diet (occasionally) 3 credits
Investigates the science of interactions between proper nutrition and weight management, and examines the appropriate ethical, and perhaps limited, use of technology as a means to reverse obesity. Topics include how hormonal imbalances and genetic alterations may result in failure to regulate appetite and metabolism. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES330K • History of Science in Europe (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Study of scientists and their discoveries throughout history within the context of an experiential learning opportunity in Europe. Astronomy, biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and physics are addressed. Evaluation of the effect on society of these disciplines (architecture, art, exploration, philosophy, politics, religion, etc.) will also be evaluated. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES331K • Science in the Fifth Dimension (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
An exploration of what science is, what it is not, and how it interacts with its “fifth dimension” (society) in art, politics, technology, culture, medicine, and other aspects of the nonscientific community. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES334K • Perspectives on Computing and Society (interim, odd # yrs) 3 credits
Impact of computing technology on social, economic, and value systems. Evolution of approaches to software development. Consideration of Christian ethics in the development and application of computing technology in various areas of human activity. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES336GZ • Building Cross-Cultural and Global Leadership Competence in Hawai’i (occaasionally interim) 3 credits
Synthesizes theories of global competence and leadership, cultural diversity and cross-cultural competence, individualism and collectivism, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence with shalom and community. Examines and compares cultural groups in Hawai’i in social-historical context. Incorporates strategies for cross-cultural self-awareness and assessment with cultural and service learning experiences. Prerequisites: GES130 or GES145, 146; Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L) course or GES245; World Cultures (U) course.
GES338K • Great Controversies in Science and Technology (spring) 3 credits
Overview of great scientific controversies past and present. Topics include: science versus religion, age of the earth, evolution and creation, global warming, and energy issues. Relationships between science and society with particular emphasis on discerning the difference between scientific results, popular consensus, and societal pressures. Prerequisites: Laboratory Science (D) course; Mathematics (M) course.
GES402P • Perspectives on Christian Marriage (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
An analysis of the central issues involved in making a wise decision concerning Christian marriage. Topics include: what the Bible says about marriage; whether or not marriage is for you; family of origin concerns; premarital factors associated with marital stability; and planning for success. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES403P • Theatre: A Mirror to Society (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
Theatre as a medium that reflects relevant issues within our society. Discussion and contemplation of contemporary issues that may challenge Christians’ personal or collective convictions. Issues may include dysfunctional behavior, racism, environmental or social concerns, as well as current relevant issues selected by students. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES404P • Being Just in an Unjust World (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
Study and practice of moral decision making from psychological, philosophical, and Christian perspectives. Includes analysis of moral sensitivity, judgment, and action; and discussion and exercises designed to develop personal skills in these areas. Focal issues may include friendship, human rights, personal sexuality, power/authority, capital punishment, and current issues selected by students. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES405P • Ethical Relationships: Choosing the Good in Family and Community Life (fall) 3 credits
Exploration of the ethics of relationships in the context of ethical theory and Christian virtues and norms. Topics include: marriage and divorce; gender; family caregiving, end of life; professional, work, and business relationships; race relations; economic justice; and consumption ethics. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES407P • Women’s Lives, Women’s Choices (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
Female experience during adolescence and adulthood, emphasizing female socialization and potential adult roles. Personal experiences, future life choices, and their consequences in light of the course content and Christian faith. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES409P • Christian Leadership in a Secular World (interim) 3 credits
Current issues facing Christian leaders today. The formulation of a personal biblical approach to leadership to enable one to impact society. Involves a variety of personal decisions that are designed to facilitate knowing oneself and understanding one’s own responses in various situations. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES410P • Family Life Cycle (fall, interim, or spring) 3 credits
Study of the stages in the family life cycle, with attention to the factors that cause the family unit to separate during the cycle. Special emphasis on studying one’s own family of origin in light of both Scripture and society’s messages about what family should be. Opportunity to consider preparation for one’s own future family development. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES412P • The Plot Thickens: Character Growthin Literature and Life (occasionally) 3 credits
Readings and discussion of a number of novels and short stories, examining characters and their values, and responses in the face of complex life situations. Insights of narrative theologians will be used to think about building character as individuals and the role of the community in this process. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES413P • Women’s Spiritual Experiences (occasionally fall) 3 credits
Exploration of diverse women’s spiritual experiences by reading spiritual autobiographies, biblical feminist writings, and research on gender and religion. Discussion of how gender influences religious institutions and Christian women’s faith. Students write their own spiritual autobiographies. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES414P • The Theology of J.R.R. Tolkien (occasionally fall) 3 credits
An exploration of the theological issues raised by J.R.R. Tolkien’s “Middle Earth” writings. Theological themes such as evil, salvation, and power will be discussed, with an emphasis placed on choices the characters in the story make with regard to those themes. Attention will also be given to philosophical and literary assumptions/methodologies employed by the author. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES416P • Christian Perspectives of Global Peacemaking (fall, spring) 3 credits
The dynamics of global peacemaking are drawn from the Christian and biblical perspectives to understand the meaning of peacemaking and how absence of peace affects positive social change. This course, through a service-learning component, explores nonviolent alternatives in addressing social problems such as poverty, hunger, environmental depletion, etc. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES418P • Christian Lives:Contemporary Spiritual Narratives (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Reading, writing, and viewing contemporary spiritual narratives that explore the dimensions of one’s call to the Christian life in the contemporary world. Materials are selected for their spiritual, cultural, and literary value and include both traditional Christian authors (e.g., C.S. Lewis or Dietrich Bonhoeffer) and more recent writers (e.g., Anne Lamott or Lauren Winner). Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES419P • Christian Perspectives on the 20th/21st Centuries (interim) 3 credits
An examination of significant events and trends of the past century in light of Christian values. Topics include the environment, military intervention, immigration, and the place of the federal government in national life. An understanding of diverse Christian responses to such issues in their historical context, and implications of these perspectives for the 21st century. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES420P • Bioethics (fall, spring) 3 credits
How technological advances have increased our abilities to conceive, sustain, and alter human lives. How to make morally responsible decisions that shape a just society. Moral issues such as healthcare practices, reproductive methods, allocation of healthcare resources, and biomedical research. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES421P • Social Justice and Christian Responsibility (occasionally) 3 credits
Attempts to understand selected themes of social justice in the United States and the global community. Examines viewpoints of different groups of Christians concerning issues such as the market economy and business, the positive and negative consequences of international trade, the debate about the fairness of public policies in the United States, and the global community. Explores possible actions of concerned and compassionate Christians in collaboration with others to address problems of social injustice. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES424P • Christian Perspectives onCreation and Evolution (occasionally) 3 credits
An examination of the positions held by different scientists and Christians in regard to the origins of humans, of the world, and the interpretation of Genesis 1 and 2. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES425P • Censorship and Freedom of Expression (occasionally) 3 credits
Censorship from the perspective of various disciplines, such as psychology, theology, literature, history, and art. Key issues and formulation of student’s own positions. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES426P • Family Interaction (fall, spring) 3 credits
An integration of a Christian worldview related to the contemporary family unit; approaches to conflict, power, stress, intimacy, and wholeness. The family system in light of contemporary trends and Christian choices. Communication patterns are examined and evaluated. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES427P • Genocide, Terrorism, and Christian Response (occasionally spring) 3 credits
Examination of the nature of genocide and religious terrorism with an emphasis on psychosocial influences in the actions of perpetrators, bystanders, and victims. Discussion of relevant religious and moral issues. Study includes religious terrorism and selected major genocides of the 20th and 21st centuries. Prerequisites: GES130 or GES145, 146; Contemporary Western Life and Thought (L) course or GES245; World Cultures (U) course.
GES432P • Christian Responses to Postmodernism (occasionally) 3 credits
Examination of postmodern theory and its effects on culture, with particular focus on various Christian responses to postmodernism. Attention will be paid to the historical development of postmodernism and the ethical and cultural impacts of postmodernism. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES433P • Biblical Spirituality: Experiencing God (occasionally) 3 credits
A study of spirituality in a variety of biblical texts, both Old Testament and New Testament. Essential issues related to spirituality will be addressed including: What is spirituality? What are biblical teachings regarding prayer, worship, and spiritual disciplines? How do we interpret biblical texts as guiding paradigms for the contemporary practice of spirituality? Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES434P • The Celtic Tradition (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Development of Celtic Christianity from pre-Christian roots in legends, druids, and dragons to its contemporary renaissance in art, literature, spirituality, and politics, with particular attention to the interplay of faith and the imagination; theology and literature; indigenous beliefs and Christian worship; language; culture; and politics. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES438P • Christian Music in Context (fall, interim) 3 credits
Consideration of the nature and function of Christian music in contemporary society, incorporating a study of its development and place in various historical and cultural contexts, as both an avenue for worship and a force for spiritual development. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES440P • Christian Nonviolence (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
What it means to be a Christian peacemaker in today’s world. The biblical mandate, the quest for Christian nonviolence in a historical and biographical context, and its implications for the development of conflict-resolution skills and contemporary public policy issues. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES442P • Journey from Hell to Heaven (occasionally) 3 credits
Explores the dynamics of spiritual growth in the context of contemporary social, political, and economic choices, through a reflective reading of Dante’s Divine Comedy in its entirety. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES444P • Christians and Conflict (fall, interim, spring) 3 credits
Examination of how we are called as Christians to respond to interpersonal conflicts that continually exist in our lives. Emphasis on analyzing many different types of interpersonal conflicts, which include conflicts in friendships, marriages, parent/child relationships, workplaces, and churches. Analyzes conflict as it is portrayed in the media, including conflicts that are currently making headlines in the news. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES445P • Aging from a Cross-Cultural Perspective: Living in a Graying World (occasionally) 3 credits
Aging processes and roles of the older person in our society and other cultures. Choices confronting students in their own aging, their relationship to aging parents and friends, and living and operating as Christians in a rapidly aging world. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES446P • Recent Immigrants: Challenges and Potentials (occasionally) 3 credits
An academic and experiential exploration of immigrant adjustment and appropriate outreach and ministry strategies. A study of the personal, social, and cultural challenges, the potential, and critical needs of immigrants. Service learning required. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES447P • Arab Americans: Past, Present, and Personal (occasionally) 3 credits
An examination of the historical, political, religious, and cultural influences of the Arab peoples of today. Students will begin to develop understanding of Arabs and Islam, and will initiate communication with Arab Americans in Minnesota. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES448P • Abusive Relationships andChristian Responsibility (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Explores different types of intimate violence using research from the fields of communication, psychology, and sociology. Examines the history of domestic violence, the prevalence of intimate violence, the cycles of violence, and the existing secular and Christian response to violence. Consideration and evaluation of choices students may face in light of their Christian values, education, and personal experience. Development of personal strategies regarding perceptions and decisions for responsibility in responding to intimate violence. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES449P • Chance or Design:Our Place in the Cosmos (spring, alternate years) 3 credits
Exploration of recent advances in Big Bang cosmology and planetary science with an emphasis on apparent fine-tuning to conditions suitable for human life. Discussion of the possibility of extraterrestrial life. Analysis of design arguments, with the goal of developing a biblically-sound view of our relationship to nature and God. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES450P • Reconciliation in a Racialized Society (interim) 3 credits
Study of race, racism, and reconciliation in the United States. Starting from the biblical mandate to be righteous people, a focus on discerning past and present racism, understanding the need for racial justice and reconciliation, appreciating different cultures/ethnicities, and engaging students in the process of racial reconciliation. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES451P • Spirituality, Sexuality, and the Family (fall, spring) 3 credits
Three powerful forces in everyday life that vitally affect people both personally and collectively. Both past and contemporary influences and experiences that are likely to impact people as they seek to make their personal sexuality, spirituality, and family relationships consistent with Christian values. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES452P • Sports in Society (fall, spring) 3 credits
Study of sports as a social phenomenon. Presentation of some of the basic elements involved in the interaction of the active human being. Includes sports and culture, sports in education, social stratification, race, and group dynamics. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES453P • Ethics and Faith in the Workplace (occasionally interim) 3 credits
Practical application of what it takes to function as a Christian in today’s workplace. Emphasis on the transition from college to a professional environment, focusing on personal maturity, workplace ethics, and lifelong Christian growth and service. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES454P • Philosophies of Love and Sex (fall) 3 credits
Examines different philosophical theories of the nature of love. Explores features associated with love and distinguishes different types of love. Asks whether there are moral or ontological constraints on different types of love. Critically investigates the role of sexuality in contemporary conceptions of love and moves toward the development of Christian attitudes and behaviors related to these complex issues. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES455P • Covenant Relationships: Marriage,Friendship, and Beyond (occasionally) 3 credits
An exploration of the relational dynamics of marriage, friendship, and Christian community within the context of the biblical concept of covenant relationship. Competing values within contemporary Western culture (e.g. individualism, hedonism) are explored and critiqued in light of the values associated with covenant community. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.
GES460P • Christian Commitment in a Secular Age: Liberalism and Conservatism (occasionally) 3 credits
Despite the appeal of the cliche, “I don’t like labels; they simply put people in boxes,” many of our responses to culture—literary, political, and religious—are broadly “conservative” or “liberal.” Examine a range of issues and texts to determine the sources of liberalism and conservatism and their relation to biblical Christianity. Prerequisites: Senior standing; GES110 or GES245; Nature of Persons (N) course; THE201; Comparative Systems (G) course.