This course was originally held in December 2011. The discussion forums remain closed to those who did not participate.
The Foundational series is a four-part course designed to introduce you to the principles of the Acton Institute. Participants examine the relationship between Christian anthropology, liberty, government, economics, and Scripture in pursuit of a free and virtuous society.
Draws on Scripture and historical Christian theology to ground the Christian understanding of the relationship between humanity and non-human creation. Contrasts pre-modern, early-modern, and contemporary understandings of relevant passages of Scripture.
Examines the Christian and natural law principles that inform Christian thinking about the role of government and law in free and virtuous societies, beginning with a survey of Christianity’s decisive moral and institutional contribution to limiting state power.
Introduces the basic intellectual components of the economic way of thinking, examines the institutional prerequisites of the free economy, and considers their compatibility with Christian anthropology and its vision of virtuous liberty.
Sorts out the confusing and thorny issue of the use of Scripture and religious authority in crafting a strategy to engage the public institutions of society. Touches on how virtue can be taught and then acted upon effectively in society to reinvigorate a moral consensus.
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