One of the greatest thinkers of the twentieth century, C. S. Lewis was a scholar at Oxford University for three decades and then a professor of Medieval and Renaissance literature at Cambridge University until the end of his career. An atheist throughout his early life, he converted to Christianity in 1931. He is not generally known as a political or economic commentator and usually avoided partisan commitments. Yet, in spite of his indifference to politics as such, he did often give prescient analysis of a variety of political topics. Looking at selections from across a range of Lewis’s diverse writings, participants will see the breadth of Lewis’ thinking and examine his contribution to maintaining a free society. Topics to be considered are, among others, Lewis' concerns about the modern welfare state, technological advancements, and the application of modern social sciences.
This conference will consist of 2 lecture sessions and 6 Socratic discussion sessions. The discussion sessions are text-based and so selected participants are required to prepare appropriately and participate fully in all conference sessions. Readings will be provided to all accepted participants.
Date: November 20-23, 2014
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Audience: Acton alumni who are currently enrolled in or have recently completed graduate level work
