Segment 6: Inspiration for Reconciliation and the Need for Tension

Listening Comprehension/Critical Thinking Questions

Read the following questions, then listen to the sixth segment of "Moral Man and Immoral Society" to find the answers.
Segment 6: Inspiration for Reconciliation and the Need for Tension

1. Listen to Mr. Charles Villa-Vicencio's statement about how Niebuhr influenced his work with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. How did he find Niebuhr's thoughts useful in the South African context?
   
   
   
2. What do you think Niebuhr means by, "Justice will require that some people contend against us?"
   
   
3. According to Mr. Lovin, how does Niebuhr open us up to being more hopeful and less anxious about the conflicted times in which we live?
   
   

Answer key

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Research Challenges

1. What impact can one scholar have on the times in which they live? Examine the interactive timeline found on the Speaking of Faith web site. Articulate three major ways that Niebuhr affected the times in which he lived. Use the specific detail found on the timeline to support these larger ideas. This can be presented in an oral presentation, a discussion or in a writing exercise.
   
   
2. Select one concept from the list of key terms below. Before you research the term, define it in your own words—take your best guess! Next, research this term/concept and summarize its basic meaning. Listen to the Niebuhr program and investigate how this term/concept can be found in his philosophy. Finally, what role did this concept/term play in American History—can you find examples?
   
   

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Key Terms and Topics

Terms

• Christian Realism
• Secular Community
• Liberalism
• Social Justice
• Irony
• Paradox
• Christian Paradox
• Theology
• Moral Relativism
• Hubris

Answer key

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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 3: Niebuhr on American Society Listen (2:15)

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

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