This seminar introduces first-year GTU doctoral students to scholarly methodology along with foundational themes in the contemporary study of theology and ethics within a multi-religious context. The term theology refers to rational reflection on sacred texts and the meaning of historical religious symbols. The term ethics refers to rational reflection of the nature of the good within moral deliberation. The term methodology refers to the stage in any academic discipline where foundational questions are asked, alternative paths are entertained, terms are defined, goals and objectives are presented, assumptions and presuppositions are spelled out, criteria are stipulated, and procedures are adumbrated. This course equips the student methodologically to deal with theology and ethics in selected religious traditions, honoring each tradition’s internal integrity and engaging in comparative analysis. One desired learning outcome is that each student will gain what is needed to construct a methodology for use in comprehensive examinations and the dissertation.

 In addition, this course will introduce new students to the various faculty members within the GTU THET department, along with their specialties. Classroom activities will include faculty presentations, visits from guest faculty, student presentations, and class discussions. Evaluation will be based on class participation and written scholarly papers.