Building Your Own Theology: Volume 3
EthicsBy Richard S. Gilbert
- Theme and Description
- This program uses the format of Building Your Own Theology, Volumes I and II, but can be used independently. It draws on the concept of the “Moral Compass” to identify eight modes of ethical decision-making. Using case studies from literary, historical, and contemporary sources, Ethics provides an opportunity to explore the processes, values, and theologies that participants rely on to make difficult moral and ethical decisions in their lives.
- Goals for Participants
- To identify moral and ethical challenges;
To understand the process of moral and ethical decision-making;
To engage with real-life moral and ethical dilemmas from a liberal religious perspective.
- Age Range
- Adult. Could be adapted for use with senior high.
- Size of Group
- 12-15
- Space Requirements
- A moderate-sized, comfortable, private room with space for dividing into small groups
- Number and Length of Sessions
- 8 sessions
Length: 2 to 2-1/2 hours - Leader Training
- No special training is required beyond good group process skills. Can be led by clergy or laity. Co-facilitation or shared leadership is recommended.
- Leader Preparation
- 1 to 2 hours per session
- Strengths
- Lesson plans are well-organized.
Offers a good structure for starting discussions about difficult moral and ethical issues.
Offers a selection of case studies for each session.
Encourages participants to bring their own experiences and concerns to the program.
Includes a worship component (closing circle).
Helps participants connect their religious and personal values with their actions. - Limitations
- A strongly intellectual, discussion-based approach.
Strong male representation in literary and historical sources. - Adaptability
- Participants can share leadership responsibilities, facilitating sessions in which they have interest or expertise.
Senior youth could join adults in this program.
Length of program can be flexible – not all eight sessions need to be used to have an educational experience. - Unitarian Universalist Values
- UU values are implicit in the program, particularly:
#a free and responsible search for truth and meaning
#the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large
#justice, equity, and compassion in human relations
#the inherent worth and dignity of every person
#acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.
Reviewed on June 30, 1996
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Curricula
