Wisdom of Silence: Peace and Wellbeing in Global Crises

The curriculum introduces silence as an ambivalent concept: both as a global social and ecological challenge and ancient wisdom rooted in early Christianity, providing alternatives to modern-day human struggles. The course offers deep insights into silence in early Christian communities and scriptures as well as addresses their relevance to contemporary religiosity and spirituality. Based on recent theological research, the course also takes a multifaceted approach to modern-day geopolitical, ecological and social issues and considers silence as a source of wellbeing in times of global, societal and individual crises and suffering. Silence is also examined as an especially Finnish phenomenon. Furthermore, the course provides students with ideas of how to consider the challenges and potential of silence in one’s personal life (e.g., educational or pastoral work). The course includes an excursion to a local Orthodox monastery and the surrounding peaceful North-Karelian nature, wherein the student is able to gain hands-on experiences of practicing silence.

Course leader

Harri Huovinen (harri.huovinen@uef.fi)

Target group

Bachelor, Master

Course aim

After completing the course, the student

Is familiar with the tradition of practicing silence in early Christianity and recognizes its potential for contemporary social and spiritual contexts
Has acquired tools for dialogue on contemporary social, ecological, and geopolitical issues
Has gained insights into silence as a source of human wellbeing
Can utilize the obtained skills and knowledge in their own working life
Is aware of contemporary research in the field of theology
Has improved their skills in teamwork, reflection, research, and global awareness

Credits info

5 EC
ECTS

Fee info

EUR 500: Course fee. The course fee for UEF partner university students is 400 e
EUR 200: The course fee for exchange students starting at UEF in autumn 2023.

Scholarships

Not available.