Religion within the Boundaries of Mere Reason (Kant at Church)

Fourth Presbyterian Church, as part of their Academy for Faith and Life series, will cover Kant's "Religion Within the Bounds of Mere Reason" over a series of Sunday meetings.

Reading Schedule:

April 8th - Through book/section 1
April 15th - Through book/section 2
April 22th - Through book/section 3
April 29th - Finish book

Text: https://www.marxists.org/reference/subject/ethics/kant/religion/religion-within-reason.htm

From the Church:
"The Academy for Faith and Life provides short-term and ongoing adult education for the members and friends of Fourth Presbyterian Church and for the larger community. Its mission is to draw participants into the many realms of God’s activity, emphasizing the intersection of faith and life."

Sundays, March 25, April 8–29 (5 weeks)
9:30 a.m. in Room 5D

Led by Clare Pearson

Using Kant’s 1793 work Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone, this class will explore one of the most powerful attempts of the Enlightenment to come to grips with the role of organized religion in society — particularly the authority of religion and the dangers of abuse and fanaticism. Dealing specifically with Christianity, Kant delves into questions of original sin and radical evil, grace, faith, free will, miracles, and revelation, arguing for a radical reinterpretation of core theological doctrines and a similarly radical restructuring of the institution of the church. We will spend five sessions reading and discussing his interpretations, critiques, and suggestions.

Clare Pearson has completed graduate work with the University of Chicago’s Committee on Social Thought, and pursues interdisciplinary work centering especially on ethical questions and experiences. She chaired the University of Chicago Basic Program from 2004–2008 and co-designed and chaired the Asian Classics Program from 2006–2009. Clare received the 2013 Graham School Excellence in Teaching Award.