European studies can provide a solution to several of the issues raised in Allan Bloom's "The Closing of the American Mind." European studies pursue the academic quest for what is truth, what is goodness, and what is beauty. In seeking to answer these questions, the Greeks were among the first to explore many of humanity's problems and…

Williamette University, traditionally considered a church-related institution, was examined by comparing it with the definitions set forth by several authors as to what constitutes a church-related or Christian college and also comparing it with the seven steps that generally occur as a church-related college becomes secularized, as established by…

One of the most important myths in education is that of progress. The idea derives from a specifically Western messianic tradition and contains the belief in the growth and the development of an organism. That belief emerges from Greek and Hebraic thought, is modified in Christian theology, and then is secularized in science. The persistence and…

This article examines particular aspects of higher education during the late Korean Choson period with descriptive analysis. The context of Roman Catholicism and Protestantism between the early 18th and the late 19th centuries is presented. Also examined is Christian higher education during these two centuries. The impact of Christianity on Korean…

Discusses the origins and context of adolescence as a cultural phenomenon and illustrates how rites of passage can nurture healthy developmental changes in adolescents. Describes and evaluates the application of a rite of passage during a backpacking experience that was designed to usher teens from adolescence to adulthood in a Christian context.…

Describes the devastating impact that Spanish colonization had on both traditional gender roles and female mortality among the Kumivit, or Gabrielino, Indians of Southern California. Documents the unique resistance and accommodation responses of Native women, from the shaman Toypurina's revolt against the missionaries to Bartolomea's accommodation…

Argues Fukayama's assertion of "end of history" must be seen as attempt to establish new civil theology to guide political deliberations. Asserts Fukayama thesis is based on Hegelian view of ideas becoming real through human imagination and will. Claims end of era is not identical to end of history and that socialism will be reborn in…

Explores the experience of Christianity for many African Americans and how such experience provides a foundation for social activism. Discusses Black church burnings with respect to the more traditional Christian African American view of religion. Explores implications for incorporating the religious traditions of Christian African Americans into…

Examines Piaget's theory of disequilibration as the tension and subsequent growth caused when new information must be assimilated or accommodated to fit one's view of reality. Indicates ways Christian religious educators can use the concept of disequilibration to understand adolescents' emotional and cognitive growth. Suggests implications for…

Many adults search for spiritual guidance and direction and persist in seeking answers to life in today's fast-paced world. With burgeoning economic challenges, political corruption, war in Iraq, poverty, health care concerns, environmental concerns, rising fuel costs, violence, racism, and oppression, many adults seek solace and greater…

Most school districts have cautiously avoided situations in which they may violate the legal principle of church-state separation. This paper describes a few cases in which public schools found ways to legally include Christian activities for Christian students. The passage of the United States Equal Access Act in 1984 allowed religious clubs…

This document presents a review of the literature that examines the relationship of spiritual centeredness to the development of a positive self-concept and good mental health, emphasizing the Judeo-Christian concept of spirituality, but discussing other concepts as well. The review focuses on three areas: coping skills, self-concept, and values…

In this article, historical aspects of the pre-Lenten celebration of Carnival are discussed and the Carnival is examined in terms of its meaning as a "rite of passage." One of the most important functions of Carnival is its original one of being a ritual with profound secular and religious implications. (Author/MC)

This book gives a complete account of the Florida Seminoles from their entrance into the state almost 300 years ago, through the great chiefdoms of Micanopy, Osceola, and Billy Bowlegs, to the current political reality of democratic tribal elections. After moving into the peninsula from Georgia and Alabama, the Seminoles fought three wars against…

Four Native American Catholic priests and nuns reflect on the 500-year history of Roman Catholic evangelization among Native Americans and call for a reconciliation of all the peoples of the Americas. P. Michael Galvan outlines the historical context of Native-Church relations since 1492, notes the negative and positive outcomes of the collision…