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Christianity & Ecology

There is a need for broader literacy and deeper knowledge of the world’s religions and their ecological contributions. This course is designed as a gateway to the rich ecological dimensions of the Christian religious tradition. We delve into unique contributions from Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant Christianity, exploring views on and relationship with the natural world. We additionally highlight the relationship between Christianity and environmental justice, evangelical approaches to “creation care”, and Christian teachings on biodiversity, climate change, and the relationship between human, Earth, and cosmos.

This course is for lifelong learners curious to know more about world religions and ecology, environmental professionals eager to deepen the discourse of environmental protection and conservation, those working with non-profit organizations and NGOs on issues of ecological justice, and religious leaders and laity who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects.

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Syllabus

MODULE 1: Course Introduction

MODULE 2: Introduction to Religion and Ecology

We begin by situating Christianity within the study of Religion and Ecology. We explore topics such as creation, incarnation, and sacraments as an entry into Christianity and Ecology. We introduce the emergence of eco-theology as a shift in theological thinking that relates the teachings of Christianity to our contemporary ecological and climate related challenges.

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Explores various perspectives on Christianity and ecology, providing a broad understanding of the topic

Taught by reputable instructors, Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim, who are well-known in the field of religion and ecology

Provides insights into the ecological contributions of Christianity, making it relevant for those interested in interfaith dialogue

Suitable for lifelong learners curious about the intersection of religion and ecology, environmental professionals, and religious leaders

Examines the relationship between Christianity and environmental justice, highlighting the social and ethical dimensions of ecology

Covers a wide range of topics, from eco-theology to Christian integral ecology, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject

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Reviews summary

Christianity and ecology: a comprehensive exploration

According to students, this course offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of Christianity's engagement with ecological issues. Learners find the content highly relevant to contemporary environmental challenges, appreciating its dive into various Christian traditions—Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant—and its focus on environmental justice. The module structure, covering topics from historical perspectives to climate change and cosmology, is generally perceived as well-organized and insightful. However, some learners might find the academic depth challenging without prior background in theology or environmental studies, suggesting it’s best suited for those seeking a thorough, theoretical foundation.

Provides a deep, scholarly approach to eco-theology.

"I gained a profound understanding of eco-theology as a new theological direction."

"The material requires careful thought and engagement with complex theological concepts."

"It's clearly a university-level course, offering rigorous academic insights."

Blends religious studies with environmental science.

"As an environmental professional, I appreciated the new lens this course offered."

"It's perfect for both theological students and those passionate about environmental protection."

"I enjoyed seeing how faith traditions can inform and enrich ecological discourse."

Connects faith to urgent modern ecological issues.

"The discussions on climate change and biodiversity were incredibly timely and important."

"I found the link between Christian teachings and environmental justice very insightful."

"This course helped me understand the spiritual dimensions of our current ecological crisis."

Explores diverse Christian ecological perspectives.

"I really valued how the course covered perspectives from Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant Christianity."

"It's a broad journey through how different Christian traditions engage with the natural world."

"I appreciated the depth of topics, from historical questions to modern environmental justice."

Extensive material may require significant dedicated study.

"I felt the amount of information in each module was quite dense at times."

"It's not a light course; be prepared for substantial readings and reflective work."

"I recommend setting aside ample time to fully absorb the complex interdisciplinary content."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Christianity & Ecology with these activities:

Review Basic Concepts of Ecology

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Reinforce understanding of ecological concepts, providing a foundation for exploring the intersection of religion and ecology.

Browse courses on Ecology

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Review key terms and principles of ecology, such as ecosystems, biodiversity, and food webs
Consider the role of human activities in shaping ecological systems

Identify and Connect with Experts in the Field of Religion and Ecology

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Establish connections with experienced professionals, accessing valuable insights and guidance on the intersection of religion and ecology.

Browse courses on Religion

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Attend conferences, workshops, or online events related to religion and ecology
Reach out to professors, researchers, or practitioners in the field
Engage in conversations, ask questions, and seek advice

Read Laudato Si': On Care for Our Common Home by Pope Francis

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Gain insights into Pope Francis' teachings on ecology and environmental protection, enhancing understanding of Catholic perspectives on the topic.

View Laudate Deum on Amazon

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Read the encyclical in its entirety, paying attention to key concepts and arguments
Identify the main themes and ethical principles presented
Consider the implications for personal and collective action in addressing environmental challenges

Three other activities

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Engage in Online Discussions with Peers on Christian Perspectives on Environmentalism

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Foster critical thinking and communication skills by exchanging ideas and perspectives on the role of Christianity in environmentalism.

Browse courses on Christianity

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Identify online forums or social media groups dedicated to discussions on Christianity and environmentalism
Participate actively in discussions, sharing thoughts, asking questions, and responding to others
Engage respectfully with diverse perspectives, seeking to understand and learn from others

Research on Orthodox Christian Views on the Environment

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Develop a research-based understanding of Orthodox Christian perspectives, contributing to a more nuanced comprehension of Christian ecology.

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Identify academic databases and online resources relevant to the topic
Conduct a thorough literature review, focusing on key thinkers and influential texts
Analyze and synthesize the findings, highlighting major themes and perspectives
Consider the implications for environmental ethics and sustainable practices

Develop an Essay on the Relationship Between Climate Change and Christian Ethics

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Synthesize knowledge of Christian teachings and environmental science, fostering critical thinking and articulation skills in exploring ethical implications of climate change.

Browse courses on Christianity

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Research the scientific consensus on climate change and its impacts
Examine Christian ethical principles related to stewardship, justice, and the common good
Develop a thesis statement that articulates the relationship between these two perspectives
Craft a well-structured essay, presenting evidence and analysis to support the thesis

Career center

Learners who complete Christianity & Ecology will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Theology Professor

This course is designed for Theology Professors who wish to incorporate ecological themes into their teaching and research. The course will cover the history of Christian theology and ecology, as well as contemporary approaches to ecotheology.

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Religious Studies Professor

This course will be useful for Religious Studies Professors who are seeking to integrate ecological themes into their teaching and research. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Religious Studies Professor

Religious Leader

This course is designed for religious leaders who wish to know how they can contribute to interreligious dialogue on environmental projects. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Activist

This course will be useful to Environmental Activists who are seeking to develop a more effective approach to their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Educator

Integral Liberation, a topic covered in Module 7, integrates environmental and social issues and affirms the writings, practices, and experiences of women in Christianity worldwide. This course will be useful to Environmental Educators who are seeking to develop a more inclusive and intersectional approach to environmental education.

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Environmental Policy Analyst

Christian Integral Ecology, a topic covered in the course, expands understandings of social justice to incorporate ecosystems and all forms of life. This course will be useful to Environmental Policy Analysts who are seeking to develop a more comprehensive approach to environmental policy.

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Nonprofit Program Director

This course may be useful to Nonprofit Program Directors who are working with NGOs on issues of ecological justice. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Consultant

This course will be useful to Environmental Consultants who are seeking to develop a more comprehensive approach to environmental consulting. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Environmental Lawyer

This course may be useful for Environmental Lawyers who are seeking to develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between Christianity and ecology. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Lawyer

Sustainability Manager

The course will introduce you to the concept of ecotheology and its implications for environmental protection and conservation. This course will be useful to Sustainability Managers who are seeking to deepen their understanding of the relationship between Christianity and ecology.

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Environmental Writer

This course may be useful to Environmental Writers who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Embodied Christianity: Ecotheology in Practice.

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Ecology Researcher

This course may be useful for Ecology Researchers who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Climate Change.

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Conservation Biologist

This course may be useful for those seeking to become Conservation Biologists who are interested in understanding the relationship between Christianity and ecology. The course will cover topics such as biodiversity, climate change, and the relationship between humans, Earth, and the cosmos.

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Climate Scientist

This course may be useful for Climate Scientists who are seeking to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will cover topics such as Christian Integral Ecology, Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor, and Climate Change.

See salaries and explore the career path for Climate Scientist

Environmental Scientist

This course may be useful to Environmental Scientists who wish to incorporate a Christian theological perspective into their work. The course will introduce you to the concept of ecotheology and its implications for environmental protection and conservation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Scientist

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Christianity & Ecology.

Laudate Deum

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This encyclical letter from Pope Francis calls on all Christians to care for the environment, arguing that the protection of creation moral imperative.

Christianity & Ecology

Here's a deal for you

What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Christianity and ecology: a comprehensive exploration

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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