Segment 3: Niebuhr on American Society

Listening Comprehension/Critical Thinking Questions

Read the following questions, then listen to the third segment of "Moral Man and Immoral Society" to find the answers.
Segment 3: Niebuhr on American Society

1. Why does Niebuhr consider the American historical view of "special providence" to be negative?
   
   Special providence led early settlers to beleive that every windfall or downfall was strictly related to their moral behavior.
   
   
2. Find current examples of American culture that still point to the view that Americans see themselves as having "special providence." Find examples in American history of this viewpoint at work.
   
   Answers will vary.
   
   
3. Niebuhr is quoted, "Individuals may strive to be moral, but collectively human beings are compromised and prone to immorality, even evil." Analyze this view. Do you agree with his statement? What connections do you see with the material that we have studied in this course?
   
   Answers will vary.
   
   
4. Niebuhr wrote: "The vigorous pursuit of the highest values by people who are intelligent enough to know that their values are qualified by their interests and corrupted by their prejudices." Reflect on this statement.
   
   Answers will vary.
   
   

[^Return to top]

Click on these links to find further instructional ideas and study guides for the material on the Speaking of Faith Web site.

Segment 1: Introduction to Niebuhr Listen (7:02)

Segment 2: Conversation with Mr. Richard Wightman Fox Listen (12:38)

Segment 4: Niebuhr on War Listen (6:25)

Segment 5: Niebuhr and Engagement in the World Listen (3:51)

Segment 6: Inspiration for Reconciliation and the Need for Tension Listen (7:20)