Thinking Politically with Kierkegaard

Widely known as the father of existentialism, Søren Kierkegaard approached the Christian faith as a calling worthy of a person’s entire life: Christian identity is something to be continuously chosen and authentically lived into, not passively assumed within Christendom. This seminar will be a politically-inflected introduction to Kierkegaard’s thought, as we examine selections of Kierkegaard’s playful writings. We will ask how his stringent critiques of cultural Christianity in nineteenth-century Denmark apply today. Particularly relevant will be Kierkegaard’s insight into the effects that crowds and modern communication have on selfhood. Enroll Now View All Offerings for the Princeton Seminar Series Who Should Attend Anyone who is theologically curious – whether you are a Christian lay leader, pastor, retired pastor, or someone of little to no religious affiliation. All are welcome! We anticipate meaningful interfaith encounters and engagement across the spectrum of spiritual commitment. Lovers of humanities programs and academic discussions. Christian lay leaders who are considering seminary. Alumni of Christian schools. After participating in this seminar, you will: Have a familiarity with Kierkegaard: Have a familiarity with Kierkegaard’s life, writings, and philosophical ideas. Understand the Absolute Paradox: Gaining insight into Kierkegaard’s concept of the tension between faith and reason. Appreciate Kierkegaard’s notion of selfhood: Selfhood is a dynamic journey of becoming, which makes it essential for contemporary politics and society.