An exploration of sexual ethics in Christianity from the patristic period to the contemporary church.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students: Graduate students will write a research paper on a topic chosen
in consultation with the professor and will be responsible for
leading one day of class discussion.
Athena Title
Christian Sexual Ethics
Prerequisite
Third- or fourth-year student standing
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to examine key biblical texts and theological interpretations related to sex, marriage, and human relationships in Christian tradition.
By the end of this course, students will be able to identify and explain how Christian teachings on sex and marriage have evolved from early Christianity through the Reformation to contemporary debates and how ethical principles have provided justifications for evolving standards of conduct through these periods.
By the end of this course, students will be able to compare and analyze competing differences in beliefs and practices regarding marriage, sexuality, celibacy, and gender roles across various Christian denominations and traditions.
By the end of this course, students will be able to evaluate theological arguments on topics such as premarital sex, contraception, same-sex relationships, divorce, and reproductive technologies in light of Christian ethics including analyzing the complexities of competing ethical principles and associated standards of conduct.
By the end of this course, students will be able to analyze how historical and contemporary cultural shifts, including feminism, secularism, and LGBTQ+ movements, have influenced Christian teachings on sex and marriage.
By the end of this course, students will be able to write a sexual ethics paper that appropriately employs ethical methodology in order to clearly and persuasively defend their own views on sex and marriage.
Topical Outline
I. Introduction to Christian sexual ethics
II. Sex and marriage in the Bible
III. Ethical methodology
IV. Historical Christian ethical perspectives on sex and marriage
V. Contemporary Christian ethical perspectives on sex and marriage
VI. Christian views on gender and gender roles
VII. Contemporary cultural and social influences on the Christian understanding of sex and marriage
VIII. Defining one's personal sexual ethics
Institutional Competencies
Analytical Thinking
The ability to reason, interpret, analyze, and solve problems from a wide array of authentic contexts.
Critical Thinking
The ability to pursue and comprehensively evaluate information before accepting or establishing a conclusion, decision, or action.
Social Awareness & Responsibility
The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.
