Berkley Center

In 2010 through 2013, Rev. Jim Wallis taught a Georgetown course addressing questions of faith, social justice, and the political process through a series of topical classes. In this class Rev. Wallis suggests that we have vastly underestimated the importance of values in our economic decision-making. As we enter a new world marked by greater economic uncertainty, several key decisions are facing citizens and the younger generation in particular. First, what is morally acceptable? Every generation faces choices about what kinds of social institutions, whether slavery or environmental exploitation, are simply unacceptable, and must work to eliminate them. Second, what is possible in practice? Given the realities of injustice in the world, what concrete strategies can be advocated to make society match our highest ideals? Another way to frame this choice is between cynicism and hope. The choice to hope is a decision, not a mood or a feeling, rooted in faith. In addition to short-term career decisions, young people must ask fundamental questions about the people they want to be and the issues they are most passionate about. Where do our gifts intersect with the needs of the world? Spirituality and social justice need each other for full flourishing. Connecting belief, hope, action, and change is an enduring challenge for people of faith, and another way to conceive of vocation. Dr. Elizabeth Warren was a featured guest speaker on the topic.