This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
The aim of the course is to provide an understanding of the interrelations between religion, modernity, capitalism and ideology. We will examine classic debates in social theory in relation to Western culture and capitalism, and bring them up to date in relation to contemporary sociological theory and political theology, applying these to examples from Europe, North and Latin America, and Africa. The course will primarily relate to the history of and contemporary Christianity and the birth of capitalism, although students will also have the opportunity to explore these questions in relation to other religions through their own independent research. It will critically explore both left- and right-wing theological models, and seek to deepen understanding of the relationship between religious and spiritual movements and capitalist economics.
The course will prominent debates in the relations between religion, capitalism and economics including: Karl Marx and the Judeo-Christian Tradition; Max Weber and the Protestant Work Ethic; the Social Gospel and Christian Socialism; Colonialism, Christianity and Capitalist Modernities; Neoliberalism and Christianity; Liberation Theologies; and Capitalist Spiritualities.
1 hour lecture, and 2 hour seminar per week for 10 teaching weeks
Also available at Level 6 (TH637)
100% Coursework
Indicative Reading List
Connolly, W. 2008. Capitalism and Christianity American Style. Durham NC: Duke University Press.
Goodchild, P. 2007. Theology of Money. Durham NC: Duke University Press.
Lofton, K. 2011. Oprah: The Gospel of an Icon. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.
Stackhouse, M.L. et al. 1995. On Moral Business: Classical and Contemporary Resources in Economic Life. Grand Rapids: William B. Eerdmans
Weber, M. 2001. The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. London: Routledge
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module both Level 5 and Level 6 students will be able to:
8.1 critically evaluate the relationships between religious movements and capitalist economics, and how religious movements have contributed to the making of capitalist economics and the spread of capitalism;
8.2 understand the history of Western Christian thinking about money;
8.3 demonstrate a critical awareness and understanding of the history of economic thought;
8.4 use conceptual skills to consider how economic cultures have been shaped by and shape religious and spiritual cultures and modes of power in different contexts;
8.5 think within a sociological, theological and ethical context;
8.6 demonstrate an understanding of differences between Left- and Right-wing theologies.
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