On Becoming https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com Every other week, Dr. Bruce Ellis Benson invites you to join him in a conversation on some of the most important questions in the world of contemporary christianity. What does it mean to ‘deconstruct’ your Christianity? What is religion, and what is its future? Who — or what — is God? Dr. Benson deploys years of training in philosophy and theology, as well as experience teaching in some of the world’s most highly-regarded universities, to answer these questions and many others. Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:35:22 +0000 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2022 All rights reserved. Society & Culture:Philosophy 1440 episodic Every other week, Dr. Bruce Ellis Benson invites you to join him in a conversation on some of the most important questions in the world of contemporary christianity. What does it mean to ‘deconstruct’ your Christianity? What is religion, and what is its future? Who — or what — is God? Dr. Benson deploys years of training in philosophy and theology, as well as experience teaching in some of the world’s most highly-regarded universities, to answer these questions and many others. Bruce Ellis Benson Bruce Ellis Benson No false https://feed.podbean.com/BruceEllisBenson/feed.xml https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/14646244/On_Becoming_Cover_67c3dc.jpg On Becoming https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com 144 144 The Long-Term Effects of Trauma The Long-Term Effects of Trauma https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-long-term-effects-of-trauma/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-long-term-effects-of-trauma/#comments Tue, 25 Mar 2025 02:35:22 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/76438184-9867-33fd-84a6-f7c9c8193584 In this episode, we turn to Alice Miller's book The Body Never Lies: The Lingering Effects of Cruel Parenting. What makes the book so important is that Miller is able to establish a relationship between the traumas we experience in childhood and the illnesses (mental and physical) we get in later life. At the root of the problem is the fourth commandment (Honour your mother and father). We end up being unable to see how we've been hurt because we want to protect our parents or religious community. And that leads to illness, because the body knows the truth and its only language is illness.

]]> In this episode, we turn to Alice Miller's book The Body Never Lies: The Lingering Effects of Cruel Parenting. What makes the book so important is that Miller is able to establish a relationship between the traumas we experience in childhood and the illnesses (mental and physical) we get in later life. At the root of the problem is the fourth commandment (Honour your mother and father). We end up being unable to see how we've been hurt because we want to protect our parents or religious community. And that leads to illness, because the body knows the truth and its only language is illness.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1691 101 full Trauma, Violence, and High-Control Religion Trauma, Violence, and High-Control Religion https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/trauma-violence-and-high-control-religion/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/trauma-violence-and-high-control-religion/#comments Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:50:44 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/55e01a12-1d04-3056-8c07-77c68b5bbdd6 This episode marks a new emphasis for On Becoming. While I have referred to trauma before, here it becomes a lens through which we examine high-control religion (like Evangelicalism). I begin by considering the role of cruelty in Christianity, though a recent article by David French. Next, I turn to Alice Miller's book The Drama of the Gifted Child as a way of thinking about how children are often treated with a lack of respect and thus traumatised. Finally, I turn to James Dobson to work out the ways in which trauma and violence are part of most Evangelical's upbringing.

]]> This episode marks a new emphasis for On Becoming. While I have referred to trauma before, here it becomes a lens through which we examine high-control religion (like Evangelicalism). I begin by considering the role of cruelty in Christianity, though a recent article by David French. Next, I turn to Alice Miller's book The Drama of the Gifted Child as a way of thinking about how children are often treated with a lack of respect and thus traumatised. Finally, I turn to James Dobson to work out the ways in which trauma and violence are part of most Evangelical's upbringing.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1955 100 full Jesus--Messiah or Mentor? Jesus--Messiah or Mentor? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/jesus-messiah-or-mentor/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/jesus-messiah-or-mentor/#comments Sun, 08 Sep 2024 02:04:29 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d8018cf7-b4e0-3554-b585-2ad6457881d5 In this episode, we take a look at various ways of framing Jesus. I grew up thinking that Jesus was supposed to be Lord of my life. But, as time went on, I came to think that this wasn't a very helpful framing. Here we'll consider other ways of framing--Jesus as Cynic philosopher, apocalyptic teacher, charismatic healer, sage, and social prophet. In short, I read Jesus like I read Socrates.

]]> In this episode, we take a look at various ways of framing Jesus. I grew up thinking that Jesus was supposed to be Lord of my life. But, as time went on, I came to think that this wasn't a very helpful framing. Here we'll consider other ways of framing--Jesus as Cynic philosopher, apocalyptic teacher, charismatic healer, sage, and social prophet. In short, I read Jesus like I read Socrates.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1853 99 full Deconstructing Jesus Deconstructing Jesus https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/deconstructing-jesus/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/deconstructing-jesus/#comments Fri, 30 Aug 2024 23:22:16 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/0860b8f6-1556-3447-a24c-e94c7f6b8c2d In today’s episode, we’re be looking at Jesus. As with all historical figures, establishing exactly what happened is sometimes very difficult. In this episode, we’ll talk about the gospels and why they are problematic, both because they are propaganda and because they were written so long after Jesus lived. We’ll also talk about the distinction between what has often been called ‘the historical Jesus’ and ‘the Christ of faith’. 

]]> In today’s episode, we’re be looking at Jesus. As with all historical figures, establishing exactly what happened is sometimes very difficult. In this episode, we’ll talk about the gospels and why they are problematic, both because they are propaganda and because they were written so long after Jesus lived. We’ll also talk about the distinction between what has often been called ‘the historical Jesus’ and ‘the Christ of faith’. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1946 98 full Trying to Make Sense of 'God' Trying to Make Sense of 'God' https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/trying-to-make-sense-of-god/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/trying-to-make-sense-of-god/#comments Fri, 23 Aug 2024 23:55:23 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/870a7ea1-190d-302a-9895-855423f401a8 Have you ever noticed that the God of the Bible, who is supposed to be the ultimate 'Good', is often petty, mean, and vengeful? In this episode, we'll consider, first, the argument that Feuerbach presents for how the concept of 'God' came into existence. Then we'll consider where the Hebrew concept of 'God' comes from (hint: it's not from God). Finally, we'll turn to some examples of God being jealous, petty, misogynistic, and constantly trying to glorify himself.

]]> Have you ever noticed that the God of the Bible, who is supposed to be the ultimate 'Good', is often petty, mean, and vengeful? In this episode, we'll consider, first, the argument that Feuerbach presents for how the concept of 'God' came into existence. Then we'll consider where the Hebrew concept of 'God' comes from (hint: it's not from God). Finally, we'll turn to some examples of God being jealous, petty, misogynistic, and constantly trying to glorify himself.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2245 97 full Is There a Correlation Between Religion and Happiness? Is There a Correlation Between Religion and Happiness? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-there-a-correlation-between-religion-and-happiness/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-there-a-correlation-between-religion-and-happiness/#comments Sun, 11 Aug 2024 23:11:31 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/efcfa152-70c4-3def-baaf-0cc6875a6946 Does being religious make you any happier? In this episode, we consider whether 'religion' might make for a happier you. The problem, as soon becomes apparent, is that there are many senses and ways of being 'religious', some of which are likely better than others at making us happier.

]]> Does being religious make you any happier? In this episode, we consider whether 'religion' might make for a happier you. The problem, as soon becomes apparent, is that there are many senses and ways of being 'religious', some of which are likely better than others at making us happier.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1902 96 full What Does It Mean to Be Saved What Does It Mean to Be Saved https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-saved/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-does-it-mean-to-be-saved/#comments Sat, 03 Aug 2024 00:49:59 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/11cf3fa9-59a6-3fce-bcff-f95ef9654a41 The idea that Christianity is about salvation seems as fundamental as any idea or concept in Christian theology. In this episode, I first ask the question 'where does this idea come from?' More specifically, how did followers of Jesus come to interpret his death as somehow providing salvation? I don't think there's a clear answer to this question, though Nietzsche provides an interesting analysis of Paul. In the remaining portion of the episode, we consider the main theories that have been advanced to explain how Jesus' death brings about salvation.

]]> The idea that Christianity is about salvation seems as fundamental as any idea or concept in Christian theology. In this episode, I first ask the question 'where does this idea come from?' More specifically, how did followers of Jesus come to interpret his death as somehow providing salvation? I don't think there's a clear answer to this question, though Nietzsche provides an interesting analysis of Paul. In the remaining portion of the episode, we consider the main theories that have been advanced to explain how Jesus' death brings about salvation.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2126 95 full The Need for the Ascetic Priest The Need for the Ascetic Priest https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-need-for-the-ascetic-priest/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-need-for-the-ascetic-priest/#comments Sun, 28 Jul 2024 21:26:30 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/b019affb-af71-3143-b0ae-26504c47c803 How have priests or pastors served to make the slave revolt something permanent? It's that they heal the wound and inflict it at the same time. In this episode, we consider how the priest emerges in society to become the figure that channels the ressentiment of the slave and creates a new kind of being. 

]]> How have priests or pastors served to make the slave revolt something permanent? It's that they heal the wound and inflict it at the same time. In this episode, we consider how the priest emerges in society to become the figure that channels the ressentiment of the slave and creates a new kind of being. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1881 94 full A Nietzschean Analysis of Trumpianity A Nietzschean Analysis of Trumpianity https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-nietzschean-analysis-of-trumpianity/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-nietzschean-analysis-of-trumpianity/#comments Sat, 20 Jul 2024 01:20:00 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d2d3b931-5223-3d42-aee8-4c6a6728093f Both Christian and secular commentators have remarked on and questioned the close relationship between Trump and Evangelicals. Supposedly, there are such great differences between them that it's hard to see how they connect. But Trump and Evangelicals share a deep sense of ressentiment toward the world around them. In this episode, I argue that faith in Trump has replaced faith in Jesus. I use the term 'Trumpianity' to indicate something like a new religion (rather than simply a different version of Christianity). My reading of Trumpianity is primarily shaped by Nietzsche's account of the development of slave morality. But I believe that Trump has provided a way for Evangelicals to leave Jesus behind in favour of a new version of master morality in which Evangelicals are the masters. Whereas Jesus teaches love, Trump teaches his followers to hate.

]]> Both Christian and secular commentators have remarked on and questioned the close relationship between Trump and Evangelicals. Supposedly, there are such great differences between them that it's hard to see how they connect. But Trump and Evangelicals share a deep sense of ressentiment toward the world around them. In this episode, I argue that faith in Trump has replaced faith in Jesus. I use the term 'Trumpianity' to indicate something like a new religion (rather than simply a different version of Christianity). My reading of Trumpianity is primarily shaped by Nietzsche's account of the development of slave morality. But I believe that Trump has provided a way for Evangelicals to leave Jesus behind in favour of a new version of master morality in which Evangelicals are the masters. Whereas Jesus teaches love, Trump teaches his followers to hate.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2034 93 full The Creation of the Concept 'Sinner' The Creation of the Concept 'Sinner' https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-creation-of-the-concept-sinner/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-creation-of-the-concept-sinner/#comments Wed, 17 Jul 2024 00:18:42 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/7244d66c-f3c9-3497-865b-622e612d8ed9 All of our ideas and concepts come from somewhere. So where did the notion of 'sinner' come from? In this episode, we explore the distinction Nietzsche makes between master and slave morality. We'll begin by explicating the idea of master morality and then see how that morality compares to the morality of the slave or those on the bottom of the hierarchy. Nietzsche credits the slaves with a revolt that turns the values of the masters on their heads and replaces them with a very different conception of morality. It's that revolt that constitutes a change in values that begins in Judaism and continues into what we now call 'Christianity'.

]]> All of our ideas and concepts come from somewhere. So where did the notion of 'sinner' come from? In this episode, we explore the distinction Nietzsche makes between master and slave morality. We'll begin by explicating the idea of master morality and then see how that morality compares to the morality of the slave or those on the bottom of the hierarchy. Nietzsche credits the slaves with a revolt that turns the values of the masters on their heads and replaces them with a very different conception of morality. It's that revolt that constitutes a change in values that begins in Judaism and continues into what we now call 'Christianity'.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2181 92 full Is the Christian Concept of Sin a Form of Child Abuse? Is the Christian Concept of Sin a Form of Child Abuse? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-the-christian-concept-of-sin-a-form-of-child-abuse/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-the-christian-concept-of-sin-a-form-of-child-abuse/#comments Sat, 06 Jul 2024 22:47:52 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/5f49bd00-aa9c-3224-997d-ca1a1bd1f1a1 This episode is the first in a new series titled 'Deconstructing Christianity', in which we will be examining fundamental Christian doctrines. We begin with the notion of sin, since that basic concept provides much of the scaffolding for Christianity as we know it. After explicating the Evangelical notion of sin, we then consider the extent it can be seen as abusive.

]]> This episode is the first in a new series titled 'Deconstructing Christianity', in which we will be examining fundamental Christian doctrines. We begin with the notion of sin, since that basic concept provides much of the scaffolding for Christianity as we know it. After explicating the Evangelical notion of sin, we then consider the extent it can be seen as abusive.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2942 91 full Rethinking the Ten Commandments Rethinking the Ten Commandments https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/rethinking-the-ten-commandments/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/rethinking-the-ten-commandments/#comments Tue, 25 Jun 2024 02:50:14 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/6198669a-7880-3dbb-b641-8c35ed26576c You may have heard that the governor of Louisiana has decreed that the Ten Commandments must be posted in all public classrooms. In this episode, we'll consider what the effect of such a move might be. But we'll also take a look at the actual commandments themselves, which turn out to be somewhat less 'moral' than one might expect.

]]> You may have heard that the governor of Louisiana has decreed that the Ten Commandments must be posted in all public classrooms. In this episode, we'll consider what the effect of such a move might be. But we'll also take a look at the actual commandments themselves, which turn out to be somewhat less 'moral' than one might expect.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2333 90 full In Praise of Pride In Praise of Pride https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/in-praise-of-pride/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/in-praise-of-pride/#comments Thu, 06 Jun 2024 18:43:10 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d66b2398-c09b-3fdb-b8f2-1c9582451c42 It's Pride Month!  We begin the month with a reflection on pride as a vice and a virtue. My own experience of teaching Evangelical students is that they often don't know what to do with compliments since they are trying to avoid being 'prideful'. But there is nothing in the Bible that indicates that having a healthy self-respect is bad. Indeed, things that both Paul and Jesus say suggest the opposite. In this episode, we consider what something like 'proper pride' might be. I also spend some time considering the recent speech given by Harrison Butler, since he specifically mentions the kind of pride associated with Pride Month only to say that it's 'the deadly sin sort of pride'.

]]> It's Pride Month!  We begin the month with a reflection on pride as a vice and a virtue. My own experience of teaching Evangelical students is that they often don't know what to do with compliments since they are trying to avoid being 'prideful'. But there is nothing in the Bible that indicates that having a healthy self-respect is bad. Indeed, things that both Paul and Jesus say suggest the opposite. In this episode, we consider what something like 'proper pride' might be. I also spend some time considering the recent speech given by Harrison Butler, since he specifically mentions the kind of pride associated with Pride Month only to say that it's 'the deadly sin sort of pride'.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1765 89 full A Few Things You Might Want to Know about Me A Few Things You Might Want to Know about Me https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-few-things-you-might-want-to-know-about-me/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-few-things-you-might-want-to-know-about-me/#comments Sun, 12 May 2024 03:48:18 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/11a9a4a6-5675-3e09-b165-30e9331cc924 In this episode, I discuss some aspects of my thinking. Although I've never been a rebel, I have always asked questions, including questions that have gotten me into trouble. While I believe that most human knowing isn't certain or indubitable, that doesn't mean that there can be no sense of 'knowledge'. Finally, I discuss how improvisation is the key to my thinking.

]]> In this episode, I discuss some aspects of my thinking. Although I've never been a rebel, I have always asked questions, including questions that have gotten me into trouble. While I believe that most human knowing isn't certain or indubitable, that doesn't mean that there can be no sense of 'knowledge'. Finally, I discuss how improvisation is the key to my thinking.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1961 88 full The Future of Religion (Part Two) The Future of Religion (Part Two) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-religion-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-religion-part-two/#comments Fri, 19 Apr 2024 04:13:03 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/6e3c472a-b948-3535-85d2-0de2b6e1262c Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1923 87 full The Future of Religion (Part One) The Future of Religion (Part One) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-religion-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-future-of-religion-part-one/#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:34:06 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/628e9721-aa8f-34d2-878f-30c72a05ea22 We're back, and more critically-minded than ever! After a brief hiatus due to a recent move, Dr. Benson returns to offer thoughts on where religion -- and religions -- may be headed.

]]> We're back, and more critically-minded than ever! After a brief hiatus due to a recent move, Dr. Benson returns to offer thoughts on where religion -- and religions -- may be headed.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1977 86 full PENSÉE: What Is Woke? PENSÉE: What Is Woke? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-what-is-woke/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-what-is-woke/#comments Sun, 10 Mar 2024 07:25:20 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/3acfb6c4-fb62-3642-8e2b-4a03b06a49ba 'Wokeness' has become a flashpoint in contemporary culture wars, and a major presence in media coverage of social policy, but do we really know what it means to 'be woke'? In this episode, Dr. Benson breaks down the history, context, and current state of the debates around 'wokeness.'

]]> 'Wokeness' has become a flashpoint in contemporary culture wars, and a major presence in media coverage of social policy, but do we really know what it means to 'be woke'? In this episode, Dr. Benson breaks down the history, context, and current state of the debates around 'wokeness.'

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1015 85 full PENSÉE: Christian Nationalism in the Press PENSÉE: Christian Nationalism in the Press https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-christian-nationalism-in-the-press/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-christian-nationalism-in-the-press/#comments Mon, 04 Mar 2024 03:34:04 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/2ef8291f-030e-314b-8ab3-bcf97ed37e33 In this short episode, Dr. Benson discusses Ross Douthat's recent New York Times article "Four Ways of Looking at Christian Nationalism," and gives his own take on the current situation. 

]]> In this short episode, Dr. Benson discusses Ross Douthat's recent New York Times article "Four Ways of Looking at Christian Nationalism," and gives his own take on the current situation. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 960 84 full Alabama, Fetal Personhood, and Christian Nationalism Alabama, Fetal Personhood, and Christian Nationalism https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/alabama-fetal-personhood-and-christian-nationalism/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/alabama-fetal-personhood-and-christian-nationalism/#comments Tue, 27 Feb 2024 04:02:25 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/42d425bf-c041-39f0-97e3-fe19d00da669 In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses the recent Alabama ruling that mixed theology with the law, disrupted fertility care across the state, declared frozen embryoes children, and brought out an issue that has become increasingly popular with Christian conservatives in the United States: fetal personhood. Can frozen embryoes really be considered children? How does theology play into this question? What are the possible political, cultural, and philosophical issues of this ruling? Tune in to find out! 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses the recent Alabama ruling that mixed theology with the law, disrupted fertility care across the state, declared frozen embryoes children, and brought out an issue that has become increasingly popular with Christian conservatives in the United States: fetal personhood. Can frozen embryoes really be considered children? How does theology play into this question? What are the possible political, cultural, and philosophical issues of this ruling? Tune in to find out! 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2022 83 full PENSÉE:Bill Ackman, Free Speech, and Alumni Influence PENSÉE:Bill Ackman, Free Speech, and Alumni Influence https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/penseebill-ackman-free-speech-and-alumni-influence/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/penseebill-ackman-free-speech-and-alumni-influence/#comments Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:49:48 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/c69ff221-2410-3da2-9341-e4a2b6ecf4d7 In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses the role that Bill Ackman, a billionaire businessman and activist investor, has played in shaping debates about higher education.

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses the role that Bill Ackman, a billionaire businessman and activist investor, has played in shaping debates about higher education.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 815 82 full Academic Bullying Academic Bullying https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/academic-bullying/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/academic-bullying/#comments Sat, 17 Feb 2024 13:04:32 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/63dc51dc-f6c6-3ac1-b966-18131222b7a2 In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses bullying and incivility in the Academic world, and how it harms professors, students, and even administrators. For more of this content, please subscribe to our Patreon (found in our twitter pinned tweet, or at patreon.com/onbecomingpodcast) for special bonus segments that will be posted after each episode, as well as a number of other benefits. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses bullying and incivility in the Academic world, and how it harms professors, students, and even administrators. For more of this content, please subscribe to our Patreon (found in our twitter pinned tweet, or at patreon.com/onbecomingpodcast) for special bonus segments that will be posted after each episode, as well as a number of other benefits. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2077 81 full PENSÉE: Academic Burnout PENSÉE: Academic Burnout https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-academic-burnout/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensee-academic-burnout/#comments Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:36:07 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/4aa9974c-22e7-3e2e-888c-2e0a9ef39862 A short reflection on burnout, and the various factors that can cause it in the world of academia. 

]]> A short reflection on burnout, and the various factors that can cause it in the world of academia. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 771 80 full Academic Freedom Academic Freedom https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/academic-freedom/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/academic-freedom/#comments Mon, 12 Feb 2024 18:05:37 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/535a6184-d0a2-3c99-9010-707eebf59a32 What is academic freedom? Why does it matter? Recent debates about politics and speech on college campuses have brought this issue into the mainstream. In this episode of On Becoming, Dr. Benson draws on his decades of experience as a professor and researcher to shed new light on the importance of academic freedom for the academy, as well as its development. 

]]> What is academic freedom? Why does it matter? Recent debates about politics and speech on college campuses have brought this issue into the mainstream. In this episode of On Becoming, Dr. Benson draws on his decades of experience as a professor and researcher to shed new light on the importance of academic freedom for the academy, as well as its development. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2080 79 full The State of Academia The State of Academia https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-state-of-academia/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-state-of-academia/#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2024 21:49:18 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/10acdfec-b4bb-39c3-a670-75da8fea5203 Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1919 78 full The Attack on Scholarship The Attack on Scholarship https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-attack-on-scholarship/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-attack-on-scholarship/#comments Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:05:17 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d34a9a04-824b-38c4-812b-470b706f8010 Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1902 77 full Is College Worth It?: The Value of Higher Education (Part Two) Is College Worth It?: The Value of Higher Education (Part Two) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-college-worth-it-the-value-of-higher-education-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-college-worth-it-the-value-of-higher-education-part-two/#comments Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:53:36 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/9f53712d-deed-35e7-99fa-db4fc4c7984a In this episode, Dr. Benson goes into more details about the variety of options provided to students at different types of schools, and how these impact their experiences. Utilizing his years of experience as a professor, Dr. Benson discusses the elements of a college education that are perhaps less tangible and less directly-connected to financial outcomes. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson goes into more details about the variety of options provided to students at different types of schools, and how these impact their experiences. Utilizing his years of experience as a professor, Dr. Benson discusses the elements of a college education that are perhaps less tangible and less directly-connected to financial outcomes. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1681 76 full Is College Worth It?: The Value of Higher Education Is College Worth It?: The Value of Higher Education https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-college-worth-it-the-value-of-higher-education/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-college-worth-it-the-value-of-higher-education/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2024 13:01:04 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/802f492a-aeb9-3498-a12b-131b6b2832bd Is college worth it? With tuition prices at stratospheric highs, and the burden of student loans constantly in the news, Dr Benson discusses the perceptions of college's value, as well as the financial considerations one must make. This is part one of a two-part series. In the next episode, Dr Benson will consider the value of higher education that goes beyond the finances. 

]]> Is college worth it? With tuition prices at stratospheric highs, and the burden of student loans constantly in the news, Dr Benson discusses the perceptions of college's value, as well as the financial considerations one must make. This is part one of a two-part series. In the next episode, Dr Benson will consider the value of higher education that goes beyond the finances. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1946 75 full PENSÉES: What is the Future of Higher Education PENSÉES: What is the Future of Higher Education https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensees-what-is-the-future-of-higher-education/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pensees-what-is-the-future-of-higher-education/#comments Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:09:36 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/66624cae-b888-3669-aaa3-2f9e675e10a1 This episode is part of a new series from On Becoming. These shorter episodes — which we will call ‘Pensées, after the work of Blaise Pascal — will serve as ‘reflections’ on the general themes that will be addressed at greater length in our standard, full-length episodes each week. In this pensée, Dr. Benson discusses the idea of what the future of higher education may be, and outlines a few of the issues in colleges and universities that will come up in our full episode this week. 

]]> This episode is part of a new series from On Becoming. These shorter episodes — which we will call ‘Pensées, after the work of Blaise Pascal — will serve as ‘reflections’ on the general themes that will be addressed at greater length in our standard, full-length episodes each week. In this pensée, Dr. Benson discusses the idea of what the future of higher education may be, and outlines a few of the issues in colleges and universities that will come up in our full episode this week. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 579 74 full Religion as a Way of Life (Part 3) Religion as a Way of Life (Part 3) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religion-as-a-way-of-life-part-3/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religion-as-a-way-of-life-part-3/#comments Sat, 06 Jan 2024 04:03:10 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/c60c2046-f644-3dd5-9c8e-90797ff67cc1 After a brief holiday break we are back with part three of the 'Religion as a Way of Life' series!

]]> After a brief holiday break we are back with part three of the 'Religion as a Way of Life' series!

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1837 73 full Religion as a Way of Life (Part One) Religion as a Way of Life (Part One) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religion-as-a-way-of-life-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religion-as-a-way-of-life-part-one/#comments Sun, 03 Dec 2023 19:30:30 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/5ae9eca6-758c-3856-8f13-02a2983164de Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1918 72 full Where Does Religion Come From? (Part Two) Where Does Religion Come From? (Part Two) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/where-does-religion-come-from-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/where-does-religion-come-from-part-two/#comments Sat, 25 Nov 2023 22:13:27 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/43984a7f-65db-3a74-871e-ed511c920511 In this episode, Dr. Benson continues his discussion of Ross Douthat's New York Times op-ed 'Where Does Religion Come From?'

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson continues his discussion of Ross Douthat's New York Times op-ed 'Where Does Religion Come From?'

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1826 71 full Where Does Religion Come From? (Part One) Where Does Religion Come From? (Part One) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/where-does-religion-come-from-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/where-does-religion-come-from-part-one/#comments Sat, 25 Nov 2023 00:31:12 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/c9c201c4-a1a1-3d4b-9828-ae7ebb6b06b0 In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses Ross Douthat's recent New York Times op-ed 'Where Does Religion Come From?,' offers his take on where Douthat goes wrong, and gives his own take on the question. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses Ross Douthat's recent New York Times op-ed 'Where Does Religion Come From?,' offers his take on where Douthat goes wrong, and gives his own take on the question. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1939 70 full What Is Conversion (Sunday School with Dr.Benson) What Is Conversion (Sunday School with Dr.Benson) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-conversion-sunday-school-with-drbenson/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-conversion-sunday-school-with-drbenson/#comments Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:59:12 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/204b4000-8251-3f70-bdf3-164633188779 This short episode on conversion is an example of the bonus content that is made available to those who support the podcast on Patreon. If you are interested in more, please subscribe at https://www.patreon.com/onbecomingpodcast !

]]> This short episode on conversion is an example of the bonus content that is made available to those who support the podcast on Patreon. If you are interested in more, please subscribe at https://www.patreon.com/onbecomingpodcast !

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 649 69 full The Death of God (Part Two) The Death of God (Part Two) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-death-of-god-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-death-of-god-part-two/#comments Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:29:38 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/1fd315f6-c1f0-3bac-9eb8-8707820f5474 In this episode, Dr. Benson continues to explore the context and implications of one of the best-known statements in the history of philosophy: "God is dead."

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson continues to explore the context and implications of one of the best-known statements in the history of philosophy: "God is dead."

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1935 68 full The Death of God The Death of God https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-death-of-god/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-death-of-god/#comments Sun, 29 Oct 2023 13:03:06 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/210e6e4a-7592-3dc1-966b-d4caf6b227b4 In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses his experience at last week's conference, Theology Beer Camp, and further examines Nietzsche's critique of Christianity. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson discusses his experience at last week's conference, Theology Beer Camp, and further examines Nietzsche's critique of Christianity. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2013 67 full The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (PartThree) The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (PartThree) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-partthree/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-partthree/#comments Thu, 12 Oct 2023 21:22:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d71293f1-a444-3b8a-9043-c0b36859a921 In the final episode of our Nietzsche series, Dr. Benson discusses his final thoughts on Nietzsche's life and work, and adds a bit of detail about how his own philosophical itinerary brought him to Nietzsche's thought. 

]]> In the final episode of our Nietzsche series, Dr. Benson discusses his final thoughts on Nietzsche's life and work, and adds a bit of detail about how his own philosophical itinerary brought him to Nietzsche's thought. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2045 66 full The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (Part Two) The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (Part Two) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-part-two/#comments Tue, 10 Oct 2023 14:17:49 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/572a904b-14ad-32b9-8b1a-a22b804d443b In this episode, Dr. Benson continues the series on Nietzsche, and goes in-depth on Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra."

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson continues the series on Nietzsche, and goes in-depth on Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra."

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1926 65 full The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (Part One) The Prayers and Tears of Friedrich Nietzsche (Part One) https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-prayers-and-tears-of-friedrich-nietzsche-part-one/#comments Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:05:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/133f7cbc-f38c-336d-a305-c7ce78a12838 In this episode, Dr. Benson begins a discussion of theological elements in Nietzsche's life and work. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson begins a discussion of theological elements in Nietzsche's life and work. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1625 64 full Gadamer Course Preview Gadamer Course Preview https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/gadamer-course-preview/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/gadamer-course-preview/#comments Wed, 27 Sep 2023 20:14:08 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e58b7783-d88b-3620-bf89-0f8b6fe1915a If you've already signed up for the Gadamer course, you might be interested in hearing what we'll be discussing. For those of you who have been meaning to sign up (but just haven't gotten around to it yet), you might find it interesting too. If you're interested in signing up, don't forget that the deadline is October 1st.

To sign up, you can contact us at onbecomingpodcast@gmail.com or send us a DM on twitter/X (@OnBecomingPod).

 

]]> If you've already signed up for the Gadamer course, you might be interested in hearing what we'll be discussing. For those of you who have been meaning to sign up (but just haven't gotten around to it yet), you might find it interesting too. If you're interested in signing up, don't forget that the deadline is October 1st.

To sign up, you can contact us at onbecomingpodcast@gmail.com or send us a DM on twitter/X (@OnBecomingPod).

 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 398 63 full Kierkegaard on the Paradox Kierkegaard on the Paradox https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/kierkegaard-on-the-paradox/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/kierkegaard-on-the-paradox/#comments Wed, 27 Sep 2023 17:37:53 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/2785939c-19e8-366d-89b6-4b4df47b88c5 In this episode, I share a recent presentation on Kierkegaard. I was part of a workshop on contradictions in theology and my assignment was to present on Kierkegaard and the paradox. The context for the workshop was the problem of contradiction in two major doctrines in Christianity: the trinity (3 in 1) and the incarnation (fully human, fully divine). While Kierkegaard is aware of (and wants to avoid) the logical contradiction, he is more concerned about the existential dimension of the paradox. 

]]> In this episode, I share a recent presentation on Kierkegaard. I was part of a workshop on contradictions in theology and my assignment was to present on Kierkegaard and the paradox. The context for the workshop was the problem of contradiction in two major doctrines in Christianity: the trinity (3 in 1) and the incarnation (fully human, fully divine). While Kierkegaard is aware of (and wants to avoid) the logical contradiction, he is more concerned about the existential dimension of the paradox. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1988 62 full Is Loneliness A Silent Pandemic?: Part Two Is Loneliness A Silent Pandemic?: Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-loneliness-a-silent-pandemic-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-loneliness-a-silent-pandemic-part-two/#comments Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:12:21 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/59dddfb0-0a0f-3bf0-b149-f8e145b67909 In this episode, Dr. Benson further elaborates on loneliness, and addresses strategies that we can use to regain a sense of community. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson further elaborates on loneliness, and addresses strategies that we can use to regain a sense of community. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2027 61 full Is Loneliness A Silent Pandemic?: Part One Is Loneliness A Silent Pandemic?: Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-loneliness-a-silent-pandemic-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-loneliness-a-silent-pandemic-part-one/#comments Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:11:15 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/650639a8-7589-30b2-b55c-61df4e8220ce In this episode, Dr. Benson talks about loneliness. After the Covid-19 pandemic, loneliness is certainly a topic that many feel well-acquainted with, yet putting a finger on exactly how it affects us and how we can deal with it is a challenge. 

]]> In this episode, Dr. Benson talks about loneliness. After the Covid-19 pandemic, loneliness is certainly a topic that many feel well-acquainted with, yet putting a finger on exactly how it affects us and how we can deal with it is a challenge. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1910 60 full Everything You Wanted to Know about Deconstruction (But Were Afraid to Ask) Part Two Everything You Wanted to Know about Deconstruction (But Were Afraid to Ask) Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-deconstruction-but-were-afraid-to-ask-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-deconstruction-but-were-afraid-to-ask-part-two/#comments Sat, 09 Sep 2023 14:56:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/28784d22-a371-344c-b5c7-207417e27443 In this concluding episode, we consider how Derrida's thought was received. Unfortunately, many people came to think that Derrida was a relativist or skeptic or some other bad thing. Yet Derrida strongly rejected any such reading of his work. And then he went on to say that justice cannot be deconstructed since justice is an absolute ideal. We finish the episode by considering some 'aporias' of justice (as well as explain what an 'aporia' is).

]]> In this concluding episode, we consider how Derrida's thought was received. Unfortunately, many people came to think that Derrida was a relativist or skeptic or some other bad thing. Yet Derrida strongly rejected any such reading of his work. And then he went on to say that justice cannot be deconstructed since justice is an absolute ideal. We finish the episode by considering some 'aporias' of justice (as well as explain what an 'aporia' is).

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1868 59 full Everything You Wanted to Know about Deconstruction (But Were Afraid to Ask) Part One Everything You Wanted to Know about Deconstruction (But Were Afraid to Ask) Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-deconstruction-but-were-afraid-to-ask-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-deconstruction-but-were-afraid-to-ask-part-one/#comments Thu, 07 Sep 2023 16:13:33 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/56e0405c-40e3-38fa-bd94-3c27cb911a16 It's not everyday that a technical term used by a philosopher becomes a common word that most everyone knows. But, as is often the case when things get disconnected from their original context, the meaning can change or even become something quite different than the philosopher intended. Such is the case with 'deconstruction'. In this episode, you'll finally discover where this word comes from and what Derrida means by it.

]]> It's not everyday that a technical term used by a philosopher becomes a common word that most everyone knows. But, as is often the case when things get disconnected from their original context, the meaning can change or even become something quite different than the philosopher intended. Such is the case with 'deconstruction'. In this episode, you'll finally discover where this word comes from and what Derrida means by it.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1814 58 full Is Communication Really Possible? Part Two Is Communication Really Possible? Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-communication-really-possible-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-communication-really-possible-part-two/#comments Fri, 01 Sep 2023 10:48:35 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/629125cd-71da-320e-a1ba-7c6c04b94db2 In this episode, we conclude our exploration into Husserl’s idea of how communication is possible by considering the distinction between text and context, or meaning and significance. Husserl insists that all meaning is set within a horizon. However, if the text’s or person’s horizon is different from ours, then that significantly affects the possibility of communication.

]]> In this episode, we conclude our exploration into Husserl’s idea of how communication is possible by considering the distinction between text and context, or meaning and significance. Husserl insists that all meaning is set within a horizon. However, if the text’s or person’s horizon is different from ours, then that significantly affects the possibility of communication.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1915 57 full Is Communication Really Possible? Part One Is Communication Really Possible? Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-communication-really-possible-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-communication-really-possible-part-one/#comments Tue, 29 Aug 2023 19:02:30 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/4085921b-6972-33c1-b925-997349cec595 In this episode, I consider what makes communication possible by way of turning back to Edmund Husserl, the famed founder of phenomenology. Then we turn to questions posed by Derrida regarding whether Husserl is right about how communication works and the extent to which direct and complete communication is possible. 

]]> In this episode, I consider what makes communication possible by way of turning back to Edmund Husserl, the famed founder of phenomenology. Then we turn to questions posed by Derrida regarding whether Husserl is right about how communication works and the extent to which direct and complete communication is possible. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1918 56 full Interview with Liz Edman--Part Two Interview with Liz Edman--Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-liz-edman-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-liz-edman-part-two/#comments Thu, 24 Aug 2023 18:51:56 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/99d3a883-28f6-3902-97af-4e0beff7870b In this second half of our interview with Liz Edman, we turn explicitly to her book. To get a bit more context for this second half of the interview, you may want to listen to that part first. As you'll hear, Liz speaks very powerfully about what the church can learn from queer people. Liz contends that the Bible is deeply queer, though you'll discover that this turns out to be one of its best attributes.

]]> In this second half of our interview with Liz Edman, we turn explicitly to her book. To get a bit more context for this second half of the interview, you may want to listen to that part first. As you'll hear, Liz speaks very powerfully about what the church can learn from queer people. Liz contends that the Bible is deeply queer, though you'll discover that this turns out to be one of its best attributes.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2526 55 full First Anniversary Episode First Anniversary Episode https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/first-anniversary-episode/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/first-anniversary-episode/#comments Fri, 18 Aug 2023 16:59:53 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/61607388-73aa-3d01-997e-ad7635b05ede It's with great delight that I present our first anniversary episode! We've already had many interesting and, I hope, helpful episodes on big philosophical and theological questions. In this episode, I consider the various themes we've discussed and how they relate to the continuing development of the podcast. But I also have a surprise announcement: I'm planning to offer a short course on Gadamer in October. You'll find the details of that in this episode.

]]> It's with great delight that I present our first anniversary episode! We've already had many interesting and, I hope, helpful episodes on big philosophical and theological questions. In this episode, I consider the various themes we've discussed and how they relate to the continuing development of the podcast. But I also have a surprise announcement: I'm planning to offer a short course on Gadamer in October. You'll find the details of that in this episode.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1679 54 full Interview with Liz Edman--Part One Interview with Liz Edman--Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-liz-edman-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-liz-edman-part-one/#comments Wed, 16 Aug 2023 15:05:27 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/aecf9ebc-3161-33d9-94e1-33d6604c8cb0 This episode begins a two-part series with The Revd Liz Edman, author of Queer Virtue. Liz (she/her) is an Episcopal priest and political strategist who has been igniting people's understanding of Christianity and queer life for more than 25 years. She has served as an inner city hospital chaplain to people with HIV/AIDS from 1989 to 1995, helping craft political and communications strategies for marriage equality efforts, and persevering for almost two decades to become an openly queer priest in the Episcopal Church. Born and raised in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, Liz has lived most of her adult life in New York City. She is a member of St. Lydia’s Dinner Church in Brooklyn and Congregation Beit Simchat Torah, the LGBTQ synagogue in Manhattan. 

]]> This episode begins a two-part series with The Revd Liz Edman, author of Queer Virtue. Liz (she/her) is an Episcopal priest and political strategist who has been igniting people's understanding of Christianity and queer life for more than 25 years. She has served as an inner city hospital chaplain to people with HIV/AIDS from 1989 to 1995, helping craft political and communications strategies for marriage equality efforts, and persevering for almost two decades to become an openly queer priest in the Episcopal Church. Born and raised in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas, Liz has lived most of her adult life in New York City. She is a member of St. Lydia’s Dinner Church in Brooklyn and Congregation Beit Simchat Torah, the LGBTQ synagogue in Manhattan. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2148 53 full The Philosopher Who Changed My Life Forever--Part Two The Philosopher Who Changed My Life Forever--Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-philosopher-who-changed-my-life-forever-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-philosopher-who-changed-my-life-forever-part-two/#comments Sun, 13 Aug 2023 16:38:18 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/4edbf6b2-ee13-33a4-9841-f0776a2fb349 In this episode, I continue our discussion of the thought of Hans-Georg Gadamer. We explore how coming to think like Gadamer makes one open to new ideas. He speaks of being 'radically undogmatic' and, as I point out in this episode, that was the way he did philosophy. I also talk about how the students whom I've taught Gadamer found that they changed significantly--for the better.

]]> In this episode, I continue our discussion of the thought of Hans-Georg Gadamer. We explore how coming to think like Gadamer makes one open to new ideas. He speaks of being 'radically undogmatic' and, as I point out in this episode, that was the way he did philosophy. I also talk about how the students whom I've taught Gadamer found that they changed significantly--for the better.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1899 52 full The Philosopher Who Changed My Life Forever The Philosopher Who Changed My Life Forever https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-philosopher-who-changed-my-life-forever/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-philosopher-who-changed-my-life-forever/#comments Wed, 09 Aug 2023 19:23:47 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/92bad586-505c-3b1c-94a8-6942c012d32c When I first read Gadamer, it was as if my eyes were opened. Reading his work broadened my mind and helped me understand everything from theology and philosophy to what I do as a jazz musician. In this episode, I discuss some of the aspects that were so welcome to hear and put so many things into perspective.

]]> When I first read Gadamer, it was as if my eyes were opened. Reading his work broadened my mind and helped me understand everything from theology and philosophy to what I do as a jazz musician. In this episode, I discuss some of the aspects that were so welcome to hear and put so many things into perspective.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1774 51 full Resisting Forgiveness Oppression--Part Two Resisting Forgiveness Oppression--Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/resisting-forgiveness-oppression-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/resisting-forgiveness-oppression-part-two/#comments Fri, 04 Aug 2023 17:33:18 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/3a91c0b1-fe56-3442-8a55-56e707a77d84 In this episode, I conclude our discussion of forgiveness and, specifically, the idea of forgiveness oppression. Victims of abuse and violence are often pressured to forgive their perpetrators, despite a lack of remorse or a change of behaviour. I show how Jesus' teachings have been significantly distorted to create the norm of unconditional forgiveness. Finally, I consider the value and place of resentment.

]]> In this episode, I conclude our discussion of forgiveness and, specifically, the idea of forgiveness oppression. Victims of abuse and violence are often pressured to forgive their perpetrators, despite a lack of remorse or a change of behaviour. I show how Jesus' teachings have been significantly distorted to create the norm of unconditional forgiveness. Finally, I consider the value and place of resentment.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1753 50 full Resisting Forgiveness Oppression--Part One Resisting Forgiveness Oppression--Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/resisting-forgiveness-oppression-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/resisting-forgiveness-oppression-part-one/#comments Wed, 02 Aug 2023 18:01:46 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/3ff4b624-8190-3737-abba-6bbf49e09630 Victims of abuse and violence are often pressured to forgive their perpetrators. The idea of unconditional forgiveness—forgiveness granted regardless of apology, remorse, or change of behaviour—has become a norm for many in the west and those who refuse to forgive are often seen as resentful and bitter. Yet those imploring forgiveness are often the powerful and those asked to forgive are often minorities who have comparatively little power. Since forgiveness in western culture derives from Jesus’s teachings, I return to those teachings.

]]> Victims of abuse and violence are often pressured to forgive their perpetrators. The idea of unconditional forgiveness—forgiveness granted regardless of apology, remorse, or change of behaviour—has become a norm for many in the west and those who refuse to forgive are often seen as resentful and bitter. Yet those imploring forgiveness are often the powerful and those asked to forgive are often minorities who have comparatively little power. Since forgiveness in western culture derives from Jesus’s teachings, I return to those teachings.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1994 49 full The Rich Aroma of Forgiveness without the Danger--On Faux Forgiving, Part Two The Rich Aroma of Forgiveness without the Danger--On Faux Forgiving, Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-rich-aroma-of-forgiveness-without-the-danger-on-faux-forgiving-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-rich-aroma-of-forgiveness-without-the-danger-on-faux-forgiving-part-two/#comments Fri, 28 Jul 2023 17:34:47 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/c09660e7-804a-381a-b9a3-5e22c6c7c40c This episode completes the discussion begun in the previous episode, which focused primarily on the idea of faux forgiveness that I term 'moving on'. In this episode, we consider other varieties of faux forgiveness--evolving memory, changing the calculation, excusing by understanding, and balancing the books. While we'll see that they aren't actually forgiveness, they do give us many clues as to what real forgiveness is.

]]> This episode completes the discussion begun in the previous episode, which focused primarily on the idea of faux forgiveness that I term 'moving on'. In this episode, we consider other varieties of faux forgiveness--evolving memory, changing the calculation, excusing by understanding, and balancing the books. While we'll see that they aren't actually forgiveness, they do give us many clues as to what real forgiveness is.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1844 48 full The Rich Aroma of Forgiveness without the Danger--On Faux Forgiving, Part One The Rich Aroma of Forgiveness without the Danger--On Faux Forgiving, Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-rich-aroma-of-forgiveness-without-the-danger-on-faux-forgiving-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-rich-aroma-of-forgiveness-without-the-danger-on-faux-forgiving-part-one/#comments Wed, 26 Jul 2023 12:22:28 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/54636971-b33d-37e9-98f5-72053485447a In this week's episodes, I take a similar approach to forgiveness as I did to the subject of apology last week--examining various things that people often assume count as 'forgiveness' that are, at best, faux forgiveness. For this episode, I consider 'moving on' (the thing most commonly but inaccurately defined as 'forgiveness') and then begin a discussion of the next aspect, 'evolving memory' that will continue in the next episode.

]]> In this week's episodes, I take a similar approach to forgiveness as I did to the subject of apology last week--examining various things that people often assume count as 'forgiveness' that are, at best, faux forgiveness. For this episode, I consider 'moving on' (the thing most commonly but inaccurately defined as 'forgiveness') and then begin a discussion of the next aspect, 'evolving memory' that will continue in the next episode.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1871 47 full How to Avoid Apologising--Part Two How to Avoid Apologising--Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-to-avoid-apologising-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-to-avoid-apologising-part-two/#comments Fri, 21 Jul 2023 16:26:53 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/cd9aaaf4-0065-3acc-a760-baa634cb2830 In this episode, we continue on the theme of apology. We talk about gender differences in apologising, the difficulty (at least in serious cases) of figuring out exactly what one has done wrong, the problems with the word 'apology' and the phrase 'I'm sorry', and the hope that an apology can restore a relationship.

]]> In this episode, we continue on the theme of apology. We talk about gender differences in apologising, the difficulty (at least in serious cases) of figuring out exactly what one has done wrong, the problems with the word 'apology' and the phrase 'I'm sorry', and the hope that an apology can restore a relationship.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2215 46 full How to Avoid Apologising--Part One How to Avoid Apologising--Part One https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-to-avoid-apologising-part-one/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-to-avoid-apologising-part-one/#comments Wed, 19 Jul 2023 14:44:46 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/4d5c69ba-81ba-3b88-ae92-05122dc587d6 Having discussed the issue of religious trauma this past week, turning to the subjects of apology and forgiveness seemed a natural transition. In this episode, I introduce the concept of apology and why it is problematic. In short, I think that many things put forth as 'apologies' fail to qualify as actual apologies, and often make things worse.

]]> Having discussed the issue of religious trauma this past week, turning to the subjects of apology and forgiveness seemed a natural transition. In this episode, I introduce the concept of apology and why it is problematic. In short, I think that many things put forth as 'apologies' fail to qualify as actual apologies, and often make things worse.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1891 45 full Recovering from Religious Trauma Recovering from Religious Trauma https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/recovering-from-religious-trauma/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/recovering-from-religious-trauma/#comments Sat, 15 Jul 2023 15:31:10 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/0bb098da-abcd-34a2-b639-896ead993aad This episode continues the discussion of religious trauma. My focus here is on how one recovers from such trauma. One of the difficulties in recovery is that strong religious beliefs learned as a child cannot simply be left behind. Or, as Nietzsche would remind us, they might be left behind intellectually while still remaining in the emotional core of our being.

]]> This episode continues the discussion of religious trauma. My focus here is on how one recovers from such trauma. One of the difficulties in recovery is that strong religious beliefs learned as a child cannot simply be left behind. Or, as Nietzsche would remind us, they might be left behind intellectually while still remaining in the emotional core of our being.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1778 44 full Religious Trauma Syndrome Religious Trauma Syndrome https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religious-trauma-syndrome/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/religious-trauma-syndrome/#comments Wed, 12 Jul 2023 18:20:23 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/9be0fad2-ba2a-3df0-8f18-de0b05ee335d In this episode, I turn to the phenomenon of religious trauma in order to see how such trauma can affect us. Trauma is felt at the deepest core of our being, which means that simply leaving it behind will be very difficult or perhaps even impossible. Religious trauma has received very little attention by psychologists and therapists, though I've discovered some resources that can help.

]]> In this episode, I turn to the phenomenon of religious trauma in order to see how such trauma can affect us. Trauma is felt at the deepest core of our being, which means that simply leaving it behind will be very difficult or perhaps even impossible. Religious trauma has received very little attention by psychologists and therapists, though I've discovered some resources that can help.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1927 43 full My Experience in Evangelical Higher Education My Experience in Evangelical Higher Education https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/my-experience-in-evangelical-higher-education/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/my-experience-in-evangelical-higher-education/#comments Sat, 08 Jul 2023 15:00:31 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/5d017d1e-c5c7-3007-a8e4-b5aa393a7fde In this episode, we move from focusing on Christian nationalism to the state of higher education in the Evangelical world. I consider the aspect of academic freedom and the kinds of restrictions placed on faculty at conservative Christian institutions. Since those restrictions can be found (among other places) in the institutional statement of faith, that raises the question of who gets to interpret such documents.

]]> In this episode, we move from focusing on Christian nationalism to the state of higher education in the Evangelical world. I consider the aspect of academic freedom and the kinds of restrictions placed on faculty at conservative Christian institutions. Since those restrictions can be found (among other places) in the institutional statement of faith, that raises the question of who gets to interpret such documents.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2098 42 full Christian Nationalism 3: Heads in the Sand Christian Nationalism 3: Heads in the Sand https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/christian-nationalism-3-heads-in-the-sand/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/christian-nationalism-3-heads-in-the-sand/#comments Wed, 05 Jul 2023 14:27:12 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/181a261b-6034-3246-af4b-5e88334f1e93 In our final episode in the series on Christian nationalism, we turn to the town of Moscow, Idaho and the vision of Christian nationalists to take over the world for what they consider to be 'Christianity' or what I would term 'anti-Christian' nationalism.

]]> In our final episode in the series on Christian nationalism, we turn to the town of Moscow, Idaho and the vision of Christian nationalists to take over the world for what they consider to be 'Christianity' or what I would term 'anti-Christian' nationalism.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1859 41 full Christian Nationalism 2: Christian Reconstructionism Christian Nationalism 2: Christian Reconstructionism https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/christian-nationalism-2-christian-reconstructionism/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/christian-nationalism-2-christian-reconstructionism/#comments Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:23:17 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/77f9a04d-eb75-32a1-bff7-548b865a0527 We continue the discussion of Christian nationalism by going back to its roots in Christian Reconstructionism, a very peculiar reading of the Bible that leads its followers to think that Jesus' call to evangelism is really a call to take over civil governments across the world in the name of Jesus. As we'll see, the goal of Reconstructionism is to tear down the existing order with the goal of rebuilding it to be explicitly and exclusively Christian.

]]> We continue the discussion of Christian nationalism by going back to its roots in Christian Reconstructionism, a very peculiar reading of the Bible that leads its followers to think that Jesus' call to evangelism is really a call to take over civil governments across the world in the name of Jesus. As we'll see, the goal of Reconstructionism is to tear down the existing order with the goal of rebuilding it to be explicitly and exclusively Christian.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1945 40 full What Is Christian Nationalism? What Is Christian Nationalism? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-christian-nationalism/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-christian-nationalism/#comments Tue, 27 Jun 2023 16:27:13 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/2e925522-9818-32b0-89f9-0a097e59b809 This week's episode is the first of a short series on the phenomenon known as Christian nationalism. You have probably heard that term. Alternatively, you may have read or heard Evangelical Christians talking in way that presumes that the US is a Christian nation and it needs to become even 'more' Christian. Much of this episode interacts with an interview in Rolling Stone magazine with Dr. Bradley Onishi, who thinks that civil war is just around the corner.

]]> This week's episode is the first of a short series on the phenomenon known as Christian nationalism. You have probably heard that term. Alternatively, you may have read or heard Evangelical Christians talking in way that presumes that the US is a Christian nation and it needs to become even 'more' Christian. Much of this episode interacts with an interview in Rolling Stone magazine with Dr. Bradley Onishi, who thinks that civil war is just around the corner.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1903 39 full What Ron DeSantis Doesn’t Want Students to Know What Ron DeSantis Doesn’t Want Students to Know https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-ron-desantis-doesn-t-want-students-to-know/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-ron-desantis-doesn-t-want-students-to-know/#comments Sat, 17 Jun 2023 15:02:10 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/139aa50b-dfeb-36a8-b499-853f4cbf95af In this episode, we consider what's going on the state of Florida regarding education. Under a new law there, discussion of anything to do with sexuality is considered 'inappropriate' for all students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Similarly, discussions of injustice that have to do with race, colour, sex, or national origin are equally off limits. In order to see why this law is so problematic, I introduce the idea of 'intersectionality', the idea that we are all composed of multiple features, all of which serve to provide our identity. My conclusion is that DeSantis is only concerned with smiting his enemies, and has absolutely no concern for either justice or truth.

]]> In this episode, we consider what's going on the state of Florida regarding education. Under a new law there, discussion of anything to do with sexuality is considered 'inappropriate' for all students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. Similarly, discussions of injustice that have to do with race, colour, sex, or national origin are equally off limits. In order to see why this law is so problematic, I introduce the idea of 'intersectionality', the idea that we are all composed of multiple features, all of which serve to provide our identity. My conclusion is that DeSantis is only concerned with smiting his enemies, and has absolutely no concern for either justice or truth.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2556 38 full Pride 2023: Queer Hermeneutics--On Being the Stranger Pride 2023: Queer Hermeneutics--On Being the Stranger https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pride-2023-queer-hermeneutics-on-being-the-stranger/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/pride-2023-queer-hermeneutics-on-being-the-stranger/#comments Fri, 09 Jun 2023 17:56:08 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d95f216e-6601-3628-9297-341409d210cc In this episode, we consider the various meanings of the term 'queer'. As I say at the beginning of the episode, my goal is make it clear that all of us have had experiences of what it's like to be 'queer'. At the core of the discussion is a basic distinction: the centre versus the margins. We consider how those in the centre have a certain privilege, as well as the point that what counts as either centre or marginal can change over time. 

]]> In this episode, we consider the various meanings of the term 'queer'. As I say at the beginning of the episode, my goal is make it clear that all of us have had experiences of what it's like to be 'queer'. At the core of the discussion is a basic distinction: the centre versus the margins. We consider how those in the centre have a certain privilege, as well as the point that what counts as either centre or marginal can change over time. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2805 37 full Thinking about Homeschooling with Kant and Foucault Thinking about Homeschooling with Kant and Foucault https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/thinking-about-homeschooling-with-kant-and-foucault/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/thinking-about-homeschooling-with-kant-and-foucault/#comments Fri, 02 Jun 2023 17:35:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/628bd0cf-e0ea-3ff1-8550-2287f8e8e15a This week we consider a recent, lengthy article on homeschooling. It's a troubling article, for it focuses on a married couple who were both homeschooled but decide not to homeschool their own children. Simply because of the subject, the article raises the question of what it means to be 'indoctrinated'. My comments on this topic are set in the context of what Kant and Foucault have to say about what it means to be 'enlightened'. 

]]> This week we consider a recent, lengthy article on homeschooling. It's a troubling article, for it focuses on a married couple who were both homeschooled but decide not to homeschool their own children. Simply because of the subject, the article raises the question of what it means to be 'indoctrinated'. My comments on this topic are set in the context of what Kant and Foucault have to say about what it means to be 'enlightened'. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2914 36 full Why I Am (Still) a Christian Why I Am (Still) a Christian https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/why-i-am-still-a-christian/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/why-i-am-still-a-christian/#comments Fri, 26 May 2023 17:35:30 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/79d42849-31cc-3639-9e15-5ca065f76296 Having gone through the series in which we considered whether Evangelicalism qualifies as a 'cult' and then having interviews with Tim Whitaker and J. Aaron Simmons, I offer some insights into the ways in which Christian theists and people who choose the label 'atheist' argue against one another. In effect, much of what counts as 'argument' is really a kind of bullying--a practice found on both sides. I suggest that such bullying should always be resisted. But I also point out that there is more than one way to define what a 'Christian' is.

]]> Having gone through the series in which we considered whether Evangelicalism qualifies as a 'cult' and then having interviews with Tim Whitaker and J. Aaron Simmons, I offer some insights into the ways in which Christian theists and people who choose the label 'atheist' argue against one another. In effect, much of what counts as 'argument' is really a kind of bullying--a practice found on both sides. I suggest that such bullying should always be resisted. But I also point out that there is more than one way to define what a 'Christian' is.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2793 35 full Interview with J. Aaron Simmons Interview with J. Aaron Simmons https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-j-aaron-simmons/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-j-aaron-simmons/#comments Fri, 19 May 2023 11:26:32 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/89c49757-3b47-3b5e-80c5-3cf2289ee559 This week's episode is an interview with J. Aaron Simmons. We talk about how the Evangelical world has changed over the past few decades. Both of us see these changes as moving from being somewhat welcoming to the Other to a place where the Other is not only not welcomed but is vilified. Yet Aaron talks about how he has managed to still find a place in that world, even while making his lack of agreement clear. 

]]> This week's episode is an interview with J. Aaron Simmons. We talk about how the Evangelical world has changed over the past few decades. Both of us see these changes as moving from being somewhat welcoming to the Other to a place where the Other is not only not welcomed but is vilified. Yet Aaron talks about how he has managed to still find a place in that world, even while making his lack of agreement clear. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3587 34 full Interview with Tim Whitaker, host of The New Evangelicals podcast Interview with Tim Whitaker, host of The New Evangelicals podcast https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-tim-whitaker-host-of-the-new-evangelicals-podcast/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-tim-whitaker-host-of-the-new-evangelicals-podcast/#comments Fri, 12 May 2023 19:36:54 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/ae8680d5-c673-38f2-9127-bed96619938f In this episode, I speak with Tim Whitaker. Both of us grew up in the Evangelical world. Those of you who've listened to this podcast know that I was more or less removed from it. We discuss the various ways in which Evangelicals have failed to read the Bible seriously and ignored some of the core teachings of Jesus.

]]> In this episode, I speak with Tim Whitaker. Both of us grew up in the Evangelical world. Those of you who've listened to this podcast know that I was more or less removed from it. We discuss the various ways in which Evangelicals have failed to read the Bible seriously and ignored some of the core teachings of Jesus.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3851 33 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence--Part Three Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence--Part Three https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence-part-three/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence-part-three/#comments Sun, 07 May 2023 20:02:47 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/005d00f8-25b2-31f1-9c2b-4011ad013b64 This is the final episode in the series considering Evangelicalism from the point of view of a cult. It also concludes my own story--at least up until now--begun in Part One of The Dispensing of Existence.

]]> This is the final episode in the series considering Evangelicalism from the point of view of a cult. It also concludes my own story--at least up until now--begun in Part One of The Dispensing of Existence.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2507 32 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence--Part Two Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence--Part Two https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence-part-two/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence-part-two/#comments Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:25:52 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/1bb45f6c-5a4c-3526-80a5-7eb746233c7d In this episode, I continue my story of growing up Evangelical. I talk about my short-term missionary experience in Belgium, some aspects of my undergraduate education, and what it was like returning to Belgium as a graduate student and then studying with Gadamer on my Fulbright to Germany. Then I continue with how things went with returning to my undergraduate institution to teach and end with the first part of my story of getting tenure.

]]> In this episode, I continue my story of growing up Evangelical. I talk about my short-term missionary experience in Belgium, some aspects of my undergraduate education, and what it was like returning to Belgium as a graduate student and then studying with Gadamer on my Fulbright to Germany. Then I continue with how things went with returning to my undergraduate institution to teach and end with the first part of my story of getting tenure.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2404 31 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Dispensing of Existence https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-dispensing-of-existence/#comments Sat, 22 Apr 2023 19:35:07 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/0e7e9868-a4e5-3614-ac42-c190cb69c884 With this episode, we come to the last of the eight aspects of cults or totalitarian movements. The dispensing of existence concerns who has the right to exist, at least according to such movements or cults. Under this rubric, I'm looking back on my life in this and the next two episodes. This episode focuses on my childhood and teen years.

]]> With this episode, we come to the last of the eight aspects of cults or totalitarian movements. The dispensing of existence concerns who has the right to exist, at least according to such movements or cults. Under this rubric, I'm looking back on my life in this and the next two episodes. This episode focuses on my childhood and teen years.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2420 30 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Doctrine over Person Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Doctrine over Person https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-doctrine-over-person/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-doctrine-over-person/#comments Fri, 14 Apr 2023 18:05:34 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d36ad738-e0ef-3cb2-8ef4-3cd6c806b9ab In this episode, I examine the teachings of Bill Gothard, who was influenced by Rousas John Rushdoony. You've probably never heard of either, but both have been influential on the development of Evangelical thought in the past few decades. Gothard is perhaps best remembered as the forerunner to the 'purity movement', though you'll discover that he and his organisation have been deeply discredited by scandals. I conclude by considering how James Dobson ended up in many ways continuing the movement started by Gothard. 

]]> In this episode, I examine the teachings of Bill Gothard, who was influenced by Rousas John Rushdoony. You've probably never heard of either, but both have been influential on the development of Evangelical thought in the past few decades. Gothard is perhaps best remembered as the forerunner to the 'purity movement', though you'll discover that he and his organisation have been deeply discredited by scandals. I conclude by considering how James Dobson ended up in many ways continuing the movement started by Gothard. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2570 29 full A Very Different Easter Meditation A Very Different Easter Meditation https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-very-different-easter-meditation/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/a-very-different-easter-meditation/#comments Thu, 13 Apr 2023 11:16:07 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/d6a420f1-47a6-3df7-b6f8-13eda6135c17 In this episode, I explore themes related to Easter: the resurrection, life after death, and what the Bible actually says about hell (hint: almost nothing).

]]> In this episode, I explore themes related to Easter: the resurrection, life after death, and what the Bible actually says about hell (hint: almost nothing).

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2333 28 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Loading the Language Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Loading the Language https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-loading-the-language/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-loading-the-language/#comments Thu, 23 Mar 2023 22:11:41 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/0ac4aa45-6dac-379d-a165-be6f42502430 In this episode, we consider the way in which language is used in the Evangelical world. Much of that language is couched in the form of cliché, which is designed to be 'self-evident' and thus not open to further questioning. Further, the way in which words are used represents a significant departure from their usual meanings, which makes it difficult to examine many Evangelical statements. 

]]> In this episode, we consider the way in which language is used in the Evangelical world. Much of that language is couched in the form of cliché, which is designed to be 'self-evident' and thus not open to further questioning. Further, the way in which words are used represents a significant departure from their usual meanings, which makes it difficult to examine many Evangelical statements. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2510 27 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Sacred Science Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Sacred Science https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-sacred-science/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-sacred-science/#comments Fri, 17 Mar 2023 14:56:12 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/8f40db90-4e4a-385e-97c8-c29ec16f63e5 In this episode, we consider the way in which Evangelicals hold on to their beliefs. In effect, there is very little room for questioning. Those who find themselves with doubts are often accused of lacking faith. But the ability to question and examine beliefs is crucial to being a thinking person. 

]]> In this episode, we consider the way in which Evangelicals hold on to their beliefs. In effect, there is very little room for questioning. Those who find themselves with doubts are often accused of lacking faith. But the ability to question and examine beliefs is crucial to being a thinking person. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2582 26 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Cult of Confession Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Cult of Confession https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-cult-of-confession/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-cult-of-confession/#comments Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:31:49 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/a3b9bd6c-a828-30c2-9f5e-2ae2b111b6b7 Confession of sin is an integral part of the Evangelical experience. It's there from the moment you 'pray the prayer'. But, in this episode, I consider how confession works in the Evangelical world and how confessions often end up being celebrated. 

]]> Confession of sin is an integral part of the Evangelical experience. It's there from the moment you 'pray the prayer'. But, in this episode, I consider how confession works in the Evangelical world and how confessions often end up being celebrated. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2799 25 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Demand for Purity Is Evangelicalism a Cult? The Demand for Purity https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-demand-for-purity/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-the-demand-for-purity/#comments Thu, 02 Mar 2023 18:53:52 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/03789719-cf3f-39ac-bf68-766b15eeb5be We continue our examination of Evangelicalism through the ‘cult’ lens with this episode on the expectation of purity. You’ll most likely discover some things about Evangelicalism that will surprise you—such as how dispensationalism results in a strikingly different reading of the Sermon on the Mount (probably the best known of Jesus’ teachings).

]]> We continue our examination of Evangelicalism through the ‘cult’ lens with this episode on the expectation of purity. You’ll most likely discover some things about Evangelicalism that will surprise you—such as how dispensationalism results in a strikingly different reading of the Sermon on the Mount (probably the best known of Jesus’ teachings).

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2796 24 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Mystical Manipulation Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Mystical Manipulation https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-mystical-manipulation/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-mystical-manipulation/#comments Fri, 24 Feb 2023 09:54:59 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/824d0a96-4836-3c17-adb1-7f0d2d51311a In this episode, we consider the extent to which Evangelicalism is manipulative. Do Evangelical leaders (pastors, evangelists) realise that they are manipulating people? Or does this happen in a way that is less obvious to everyone involved? Or does it even happen at all? As always, my goal is to put in front you what I'm able to see and let you decide for yourself.

]]> In this episode, we consider the extent to which Evangelicalism is manipulative. Do Evangelical leaders (pastors, evangelists) realise that they are manipulating people? Or does this happen in a way that is less obvious to everyone involved? Or does it even happen at all? As always, my goal is to put in front you what I'm able to see and let you decide for yourself.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2878 23 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Milieu Control Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Milieu Control https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-milieu-control/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-milieu-control/#comments Fri, 17 Feb 2023 18:42:13 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/228382b1-1242-3fa4-b345-72569ea202b8 In this episode, we consider the first of eight characteristics of 'cults'. Milieu control is a way in which groups provide limits to what members can say, read, view, or even think. Such control happens all the time, in groups of all sorts. But the question is: at what point (if at all) does such control become 'cultish' in nature?

]]> In this episode, we consider the first of eight characteristics of 'cults'. Milieu control is a way in which groups provide limits to what members can say, read, view, or even think. Such control happens all the time, in groups of all sorts. But the question is: at what point (if at all) does such control become 'cultish' in nature?

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3007 22 full Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Preliminary Considerations Is Evangelicalism a Cult? Preliminary Considerations https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-preliminary-considerations/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/is-evangelicalism-a-cult-preliminary-considerations/#comments Fri, 10 Feb 2023 18:45:24 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/237c810c-5783-35a3-b6a3-0660f581bad6 With this episode, we begin a series examining Evangelicalism using the rubric of 'cult'.  This first episode is designed as an introduction to the notion 'cult'. We consider various things and ways in which they could be said to be 'cultish'.

]]> With this episode, we begin a series examining Evangelicalism using the rubric of 'cult'.  This first episode is designed as an introduction to the notion 'cult'. We consider various things and ways in which they could be said to be 'cultish'.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2713 21 full Growing Up Evangelical: Reflections Growing Up Evangelical: Reflections https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/growing-up-evangelical-reflections/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/growing-up-evangelical-reflections/#comments Sat, 28 Jan 2023 17:16:33 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/23d37345-1dab-3afa-b5da-5adc6df7a2e3 In this episode, I look back to my years growing up. I hope you'll find my reflections interesting on their own. However, many aspects of this episode will be expanded in episodes to come, so it will give you an idea of where we'll be going.

]]> In this episode, I look back to my years growing up. I hope you'll find my reflections interesting on their own. However, many aspects of this episode will be expanded in episodes to come, so it will give you an idea of where we'll be going.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2400 20 full Jesus the Deconstructor Jesus the Deconstructor https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/jesus-the-deconstructor/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/jesus-the-deconstructor/#comments Thu, 19 Jan 2023 18:44:27 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/47d8fcec-c31e-3ccc-a02d-b911ab651cbc In this episode, I consider how Jesus deconstructs the religious teachings of his day. We begin with a short excursion on the brain, particularly on how the right hemisphere is where we experience things in context. Then we turn to Jesus' deconstruction. With that example, we then consider deconstruction and its role.

]]> In this episode, I consider how Jesus deconstructs the religious teachings of his day. We begin with a short excursion on the brain, particularly on how the right hemisphere is where we experience things in context. Then we turn to Jesus' deconstruction. With that example, we then consider deconstruction and its role.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2740 19 full Interview with John D Caputo Interview with John D Caputo https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-john-d-caputo/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/interview-with-john-d-caputo/#comments Thu, 05 Jan 2023 15:06:16 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/4b134ba5-3e57-331c-8fea-0465052648f0 On this episode, we have the treat of hearing from Professor John D. Caputo. As you'll hear in the interview, I've asked him to tell us about his own intellectual and religious development.

]]> On this episode, we have the treat of hearing from Professor John D. Caputo. As you'll hear in the interview, I've asked him to tell us about his own intellectual and religious development.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2349 18 full The Advent of Christmas The Advent of Christmas https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-advent-of-christmas/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-advent-of-christmas/#comments Sun, 25 Dec 2022 14:18:45 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/95855d85-7850-3c0c-80d3-4319f7193040 Have you ever wondered where all the customs that surround Christmas came from? You likely have heard that Christmas picks up on certain 'pagan' customs. But the story is much more interesting than that. In this episode, we consider how many centuries it took for the celebration of Jesus' birth to take the form it now has. It's a fascinating story.

]]> Have you ever wondered where all the customs that surround Christmas came from? You likely have heard that Christmas picks up on certain 'pagan' customs. But the story is much more interesting than that. In this episode, we consider how many centuries it took for the celebration of Jesus' birth to take the form it now has. It's a fascinating story.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3250 17 full Do You Need God to Have Morality? Do You Need God to Have Morality? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/do-you-need-god-to-have-morality/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/do-you-need-god-to-have-morality/#comments Fri, 16 Dec 2022 14:12:33 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/3aa2a846-ce48-3422-ab85-4c94d78996ca It's an old question, but there are some fascinating new answers. In this episode, we explore how we make moral judgments. We consider the  evidence for the idea that morality is something we know intuitively. Our moral judgments are strongly affected by our community and tradition. Precisely because morality is based in our emotions (our 'sentiments' as some philosophers called it), having a rational discussion about morality is difficult--both because we make judgments without knowing why and because such judgments are so deeply connected to our emotions.

]]> It's an old question, but there are some fascinating new answers. In this episode, we explore how we make moral judgments. We consider the  evidence for the idea that morality is something we know intuitively. Our moral judgments are strongly affected by our community and tradition. Precisely because morality is based in our emotions (our 'sentiments' as some philosophers called it), having a rational discussion about morality is difficult--both because we make judgments without knowing why and because such judgments are so deeply connected to our emotions.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2862 16 full Foucault, Power, and Religion Foucault, Power, and Religion https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/foucault-power-and-religion/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/foucault-power-and-religion/#comments Wed, 07 Dec 2022 15:40:26 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/12f7bb07-0a88-3be1-b466-681aac8fbcbe The French philosopher Michel Foucault spent much of his career analysing how power works in society. In this episode, I unpack his ideas about how 'discourses' (really, anything in which humans interact) work by considering various examples, including a current Supreme Court case.

]]> The French philosopher Michel Foucault spent much of his career analysing how power works in society. In this episode, I unpack his ideas about how 'discourses' (really, anything in which humans interact) work by considering various examples, including a current Supreme Court case.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2863 15 full Demonising the Enemy Demonising the Enemy https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/demonising-the-enemy/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/demonising-the-enemy/#comments Fri, 02 Dec 2022 12:01:13 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/a0de534a-f339-3050-ada0-8b7f93ceabb2 Perhaps the most effective strategy for silencing someone you don't like is to accuse him or her of being 'demonic' or in league with the devil. It doesn't matter, in such a case, whether the devil is real or not. Calling someone 'satanic' makes meaningful conversation impossible.

]]> Perhaps the most effective strategy for silencing someone you don't like is to accuse him or her of being 'demonic' or in league with the devil. It doesn't matter, in such a case, whether the devil is real or not. Calling someone 'satanic' makes meaningful conversation impossible.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2886 14 full You May Be More Christian Than You Think You May Be More Christian Than You Think https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/you-may-be-more-christian-than-you-think/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/you-may-be-more-christian-than-you-think/#comments Fri, 11 Nov 2022 17:10:39 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/b59a245c-44db-357d-9403-9de4a727d797 In this episode, I discuss the book Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World. It is a long and well informed history of Christianity. But the focus of the author, Tom Holland, is particularly on how deeply western society has been influenced by Christianity, so much so that our current cultural differences are not disagreements between Christianity and the secular but differences between competing ideals for how one lives out Christian values.

]]> In this episode, I discuss the book Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World. It is a long and well informed history of Christianity. But the focus of the author, Tom Holland, is particularly on how deeply western society has been influenced by Christianity, so much so that our current cultural differences are not disagreements between Christianity and the secular but differences between competing ideals for how one lives out Christian values.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2918 13 full Melancholic Joy: An Interview with Brian Treanor Melancholic Joy: An Interview with Brian Treanor https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/melancholic-joy-an-interview-with-brian-treanor/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/melancholic-joy-an-interview-with-brian-treanor/#comments Wed, 02 Nov 2022 02:32:05 +0000 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/57516588-5e86-3df4-a974-4b39a845ab1b How does one find meaning and purpose in life? Is there something like 'the meaning of life'?

Prof. Treanor has written a rich and thoroughly engaging book, one that engages with questions about nihilism and relativism but points us toward hope and love.

In this episode, Dr Treanor elaborates on his idea of joy tinged with melancholy.

]]> How does one find meaning and purpose in life? Is there something like 'the meaning of life'?

Prof. Treanor has written a rich and thoroughly engaging book, one that engages with questions about nihilism and relativism but points us toward hope and love.

In this episode, Dr Treanor elaborates on his idea of joy tinged with melancholy.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3646 12 full The Tech Cults of Silicon Valley The Tech Cults of Silicon Valley https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-tech-cults-of-silicon-valley/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-tech-cults-of-silicon-valley/#comments Sat, 22 Oct 2022 13:11:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/08a30c8c-2ed5-3707-a828-ea94b22afdf1 You've probably never thought that the workplace could be a cult. After all, we usually assume that cults are strange religious things. But, in this episode, I consider the case laid out by Carolyn Chen that many of the tech firms in Silicon Valley perfectly fit the definition of a cult. Her book is titled Work Pray Code: How Work Becomes Religion in Silicon Valley. She doesn't argue that work is 'like' religion; instead, she claims that, for many people in Silicon Valley, work has effectively become their religion, a religion so encompassing and demanding that it can be defined as a cult.

]]> You've probably never thought that the workplace could be a cult. After all, we usually assume that cults are strange religious things. But, in this episode, I consider the case laid out by Carolyn Chen that many of the tech firms in Silicon Valley perfectly fit the definition of a cult. Her book is titled Work Pray Code: How Work Becomes Religion in Silicon Valley. She doesn't argue that work is 'like' religion; instead, she claims that, for many people in Silicon Valley, work has effectively become their religion, a religion so encompassing and demanding that it can be defined as a cult.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2871 11 full Understanding Football as Religion Understanding Football as Religion https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/understanding-football-as-religion/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/understanding-football-as-religion/#comments Thu, 13 Oct 2022 12:31:27 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/2d45ceba-a7d2-3107-8f8a-46424925dbd9 Does it sound crazy to you that football (in both the American sense and the way the rest of the world uses the term) can be considered a religion? In this episode, we consider how football functions as a religion for many people. Along the way, I have important things to say about the human brain and how we come to our values--the things that really matter to us. I'll also be showing both how and why the 'New Atheist' conception of religion is fundamentally incorrect. The entire discussion is designed to help you come to a better understanding of what religion is and how it functions. As will become clear, it will likely never be possible for human beings simply to dispense with religion. Instead, religion is something that is constantly being improvised in many ways and pervades our lives. But you can only come to see that point if you're willing to rethink your concept of religion. 

]]> Does it sound crazy to you that football (in both the American sense and the way the rest of the world uses the term) can be considered a religion? In this episode, we consider how football functions as a religion for many people. Along the way, I have important things to say about the human brain and how we come to our values--the things that really matter to us. I'll also be showing both how and why the 'New Atheist' conception of religion is fundamentally incorrect. The entire discussion is designed to help you come to a better understanding of what religion is and how it functions. As will become clear, it will likely never be possible for human beings simply to dispense with religion. Instead, religion is something that is constantly being improvised in many ways and pervades our lives. But you can only come to see that point if you're willing to rethink your concept of religion. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2490 10 full Walker, Warnock, and Jesus Walker, Warnock, and Jesus https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/walker-warnock-and-jesus/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/walker-warnock-and-jesus/#comments Tue, 11 Oct 2022 16:05:50 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/0e4ccf26-dc2d-31f7-8135-74e0e4442884 Although many of my listeners live in someplace other than the United States, I've chosen to add an 'extra' podcast to discuss the race in the state of Georgia between Herschel Walker and Raphael Warnock. What might seem to be simply a contest between two people running for the US senate turns out to be a study in how Evangelicals portray themselves as the 'true' Christians. But I argue that Warnock, the candidate that Evangelicals don't like, is a much better candidate for the title 'true follower of Jesus'.

]]> Although many of my listeners live in someplace other than the United States, I've chosen to add an 'extra' podcast to discuss the race in the state of Georgia between Herschel Walker and Raphael Warnock. What might seem to be simply a contest between two people running for the US senate turns out to be a study in how Evangelicals portray themselves as the 'true' Christians. But I argue that Warnock, the candidate that Evangelicals don't like, is a much better candidate for the title 'true follower of Jesus'.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 1276 9 full How Religion Played a Key Role in Human Evolution How Religion Played a Key Role in Human Evolution https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-religion-played-a-key-role-in-human-evolution/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/how-religion-played-a-key-role-in-human-evolution/#comments Thu, 06 Oct 2022 13:39:21 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/a4ab3d9c-2885-37c1-a344-6eeb818dfbbf Most people assume that religion and evolution are seriously at odds with one another. However, in this podcast you'll come to see how religion played a highly significant role in our evolution as human beings. Indeed, religion seems to be one of the major factors in the development of human language and it's hard to imagine that human beings could have developed so significantly apart from religion.

]]> Most people assume that religion and evolution are seriously at odds with one another. However, in this podcast you'll come to see how religion played a highly significant role in our evolution as human beings. Indeed, religion seems to be one of the major factors in the development of human language and it's hard to imagine that human beings could have developed so significantly apart from religion.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3157 8 full What Is Religion? What Is Religion? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-religion-1664367281/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-religion-1664367281/#comments Wed, 28 Sep 2022 13:14:40 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/3dd83a8f-4537-3e1f-addc-ef2828340dd6 Everyone knows what religion is. Or do we? In this episode, we'll take a look at how our conception of religion developed over many centuries. We'll discover that the term 'religion' is based on the Latin term 'religio', a term that offers important clues for how we might re-think the very notion of religion.

]]> Everyone knows what religion is. Or do we? In this episode, we'll take a look at how our conception of religion developed over many centuries. We'll discover that the term 'religion' is based on the Latin term 'religio', a term that offers important clues for how we might re-think the very notion of religion.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2643 7 full The Decline of Christianity The Decline of Christianity https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-decline-of-christianity/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/the-decline-of-christianity/#comments Sat, 24 Sep 2022 14:08:35 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/a60ebd54-ad10-380b-8ed4-7eb87649d525 Is Chrisitianity finished in the US? The most recent Pew Report on religion in the United States shows that Christianity is in a steep decline. In this podcast, I examine the stats and consider what this means for the future of Christianity. 

]]> Is Chrisitianity finished in the US? The most recent Pew Report on religion in the United States shows that Christianity is in a steep decline. In this podcast, I examine the stats and consider what this means for the future of Christianity. 

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2740 5 full What Is Christianity About? What Is Christianity About? https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-christianity-about/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/what-is-christianity-about/#comments Tue, 13 Sep 2022 19:01:02 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/bcc4c035-edf1-3974-a3d8-5c1121e930d6 In this episode, we consider how practice and doctrine relate in Christianity. I argue that practice is foremost.

]]> In this episode, we consider how practice and doctrine relate in Christianity. I argue that practice is foremost.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2536 1 4 full You Are Not Far From the Kingdom You Are Not Far From the Kingdom https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/you-are-not-far-from-the-kingdom/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/you-are-not-far-from-the-kingdom/#comments Sun, 04 Sep 2022 18:46:28 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/726dd56e-db35-3806-b720-14a8a954caf0 How does one become a follower of Jesus? In this episode, we examine the surprising and complex things that Jesus says about following him.

]]> How does one become a follower of Jesus? In this episode, we examine the surprising and complex things that Jesus says about following him.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 3094 1 3 full Evangelical Disarray: Responding to the Interview with Russell Moore on the Ezra Klein Show Evangelical Disarray: Responding to the Interview with Russell Moore on the Ezra Klein Show https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/evangelical-disarray-responding-to-the-interview-with-russell-moore-on-the-ezra-klein-show-1662052127/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/evangelical-disarray-responding-to-the-interview-with-russell-moore-on-the-ezra-klein-show-1662052127/#comments Thu, 01 Sep 2022 18:08:47 +0100 BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/8be95a16-1e5d-357a-a7b0-4f398ae3a189 In this episode, I use the interview with Russell Moore as a springboard for my own thoughts regarding Evangelicalism.

]]> In this episode, I use the interview with Russell Moore as a springboard for my own thoughts regarding Evangelicalism.

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 2306 1 2 full Introduction Introduction https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/on-becoming-1660832601/ https://BruceEllisBenson.podbean.com/e/on-becoming-1660832601/#comments Thu, 18 Aug 2022 15:23:21 +0100 qznrpncd4v.podbean.com/eb46f6ed-57f8-3c34-a1ad-e3ed0c88c2d4 An introduction to the podcast

]]> An introduction to the podcast

]]> Bruce Ellis Benson false No 879 1 1 full