Christian Responses to Global Warming Forum

Sunday, May 7, 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Bethel University Library

Approximately 70 people attended the Friends' sponsored Forum on Christian Responses to Global Warming. Dr. Ken Petersen began the program with a summary of the latest scientific information about global warming. Dr. Sarah Shady followed with a query into ethical dimensions from the perspectives of ethics theories. She continued by introducing three concepts to consider: narrative, motivation toward ethical action, and virtue ethics. Dr. William Johnson approached the subject from a political scientist's point of view, concluding that “a global consensus of change, based on nongovernmental organizations, socially responsible corporations, religions, and constructive news media" must "advocate and support government policies.” Thomas Becknell shared his insights about our responsibilities as caretakers of the Earth. He concluded by encouraging the audience to: 1. Live with nature. 2. Fall in love with where you are. 3. Get acquainted with the scriptures. 4. Love the poor. 5. Get along with science. 6. Examine the motives of corporate America. 7. Imagine those who will come after us.

A question/answer session followed.