Throughout this class, we have discussed the concept of worldview and analyzed Christian theism, secular materialism, Marxism, Postmodernism, and pantheism/New Spiritualism as live worldview options in today’s world.
In this final paper, you will compare and contrast one of these worldviews with Christian theism, using the “Ten Ways of Looking at the World” you’ve read about in the Understanding the Times text. This comparison will allow you to present your understanding of the two worldviews, as well as examine the beliefs of the non-Christian worldview (as well as your own) in light of a biblical perspective. In each of the “Ten Ways to Look at the World,” note where your personal worldview is similar or dissimilar from the two that you are comparing.
Include the following in your paper:
Section 1: Introduction (only 1 paragraph).
Section 2: The Central Ideas. In at least 1 page: Define the central concerns, major themes, core ideas, and ultimate goals of both worldviews.
Section 3: Compare-and-Contrast. In at least 2 pages: This section is more specific. Explain how both worldviews specifically address the list of “Ten Ways of Looking at the World” in Understanding the Times: theology, philosophy, ethics, biology, psychology, sociology, law, politics, economics, and history. In that given order, compare-and-contrast both worldviews in each of the ten categories. For instance, if you selected New Spirituality: “Christianity says [fill in] about theology, but New Spirituality says [fill in] about theology.” The comparison should highlight the essence of similarity-and/or-difference but it does not need to be in great detail. Meet the two-page requirement for this section but save space overall for the other requirements below.
Section 4: A Logical Defense. In at least 2 pages: State which of these worldviews you find more compelling, and then explain why using logic (aka natural reason). In your explanation, give a logical presentation — without citing Scripture as supernatural revelation, nor personal experience — and a logical defense of your conclusions. Per a philosophy course, the demonstration of critical thinking and the use of natural reason are essential. If you support the Christian worldview, why do you believe, for example, in the existence of God and Jesus as the Christ? What logic supports those essential and fundamental beliefs?
Section 5: Common Ground. In at least 1 page: Include suggestions as to how the ideas from these two worldviews might be able to find common ground and help people live together in greater harmony. Give at least two practical examples of finding such common ground and how this alliance might shape a society.
Section 6: Conclusion (only 1 or 2 paragraphs).
This paper should be seven to eight-pages long (not including the title and references pages), in proper APA 7th format, and include at least three sources outside of course textbooks.
