Description

Political Theology Diploma Course

The Political Theology course offers an in-depth exploration of the complex relationship between politics and theology, examining how religious ideas influence political structures and vice versa. This Political Theology online course is designed for those looking to understand the historical and contemporary intersections of political and theological thought. The course delves into significant themes such as the influence of Christian theology on the modern state, the role of religious symbolism in political representation, and the impact of theological concepts on contemporary political debates.

Throughout the Political Theology course, students will explore how religious beliefs have shaped political power dynamics over centuries, including the examination of texts and ideas from prominent thinkers like Hannah Arendt, Carl Schmitt, and Hans Blumenberg. The course also addresses less conventional subjects, such as the representation of the sovereign in the unconscious during Renaissance England and the notion of sovereign marriage in historical contexts like the French Match. These topics are not just historical—they resonate in today’s political landscapes, offering critical insights into the persistence of theological ideas in secular political institutions.

In addition, the Political Theology online course engages students with modern interpretations and critiques of political theology, such as the discussion of Arendt on revolutionary spirit and its lasting influence on political movements. Another intriguing aspect of the course is the exploration of Christian resistance and the use of force, shedding light on the moral and ethical dilemmas that arise when religious beliefs clash with political authority.

The content of the Political Theology Diploma course includes a broad examination of political theologies and the concept of the corpus mysticum, a term historically used to describe the mystical body of Christ, which has been appropriated in various political contexts. This aspect of the course encourages students to think critically about the ways in which theological concepts are used to legitimise political power and social hierarchies. It also provides a unique opportunity to study the cultural and political implications of the death of Christ as represented in secular law, a topic that continues to have relevance in discussions of law, justice, and morality.

One of the key topics in the Political Theology course is the idea of the New Enlightenment and Universalism, where students will grapple with the tension between religious universalism and secularism. This topic invites a nuanced discussion of how modern political movements attempt to reconcile or reject the theological underpinnings of universal human rights and democratic governance. By studying these complex intersections, students will be better equipped to understand the role of political theology in shaping current and future political ideologies.

The Political Theology Diploma course also explores the role of representation in political theology, drawing on literary and historical texts like Hamlet. Here, the focus is on how representation—both in the sense of political delegation and in symbolic depictions—plays a critical role in the development of political and theological ideas. For instance, students will analyse how characters like Hamlet serve as metaphors for broader political and theological concerns, offering insight into the ways that literature reflects and critiques political realities.

As an online course, the Political Theology course is designed to be flexible and accessible, allowing students to study at their own pace. Each unit concludes with a multiple-choice examination, which helps to reinforce key concepts and ensure that all major aspects of the unit have been understood. This method of assessment not only aids in retention but also provides immediate feedback, allowing students to identify any areas where further review might be necessary. Upon passing, students can confidently move on to the next unit, building a solid foundation of knowledge that culminates in the final assessment.

Upon completion of the course, students will receive a diploma certificate and an academic transcript, both of which are available for download from their student account free of charge. These credentials serve as recognition of the knowledge and skills gained, offering tangible proof of the student’s expertise in the field of political theology. The flexibility of the Political Theology online course, combined with its rigorous academic content, makes it an ideal choice for professionals, students, and anyone with an interest in the intricate links between religion and politics.

Additionally, the course includes fascinating discussions on topics such as the concept of the ‘dead neighbour’ and its implications in political theology, as well as an analysis of the Biblical figure Samson in the context of political resistance and rebellion. By engaging with these diverse topics, students will gain a deeper appreciation of how theological ideas have been used to support, resist, or redefine political authority.

Overall, the Political Theology course provides a comprehensive education on the subject, blending historical analysis with contemporary relevance. It equips students with the analytical tools needed to critically engage with current political debates, making it highly relevant for those pursuing careers in academia, law, public policy, or any field where understanding the intersection of politics and theology is beneficial.

The Political Theology Diploma course stands out not only for its broad scope but also for its commitment to fostering critical thinking and academic rigour. With a curriculum that spans centuries of thought and a focus on both well-known and obscure aspects of political theology, this course offers a rich and varied learning experience. Whether you are new to the subject or looking to deepen your existing knowledge, the Political Theology online course provides the resources, support, and academic challenge needed to achieve your educational goals.

By enrolling in this course, students will join a vibrant online community of learners, engaging in discussions and debates that extend beyond the virtual classroom. The Political Theology course is more than just an academic pursuit; it is an opportunity to explore the ideas that have shaped—and continue to shape—the world we live in.

What you will learn

1:Political Theology and the Modern World
2:Hamlet and Representation 
3:Blumenberg and Schmitt on Political Theology
4:Political Theologies and the Corpus Mysticum
5:Dead Neighbour Archives
6:Arendt on Revolutionary Spirit and its Legacy
7:Force and Christian Resistance 
8:The Sovereign in the Unconscious and Renaissance England
9:Sovereign Marriage and the French Match
10:The Death of Christ in Secular Law
11:Samson Uncircumcised 
12:The Idea of New Enlightenment and Universalism