The relationship between activism—work that transforms or heals the world—and spiritual life has often been contested. For some, spirituality is an entirely separate realm from the worldly. Firm distinctions are often made between the inner life and the external world. In this course, we will challenge those assumptions and approach the concept of Spiritual Activism through the lens of a reimagined worldview, one that is holistic and relational.

The first part of the course will consider the emergence of this worldview as an apocalyptic moment—the unveiling of a new story as the old patterns of thinking and living no longer hold. We’ll explore cosmologies and spiritual practices—past and present—that emphasize interconnection and relationship.

We will also consider the role of teaching and education—not just curriculum, but pedagogy as well—in this emergent and transformative worldview. We’ll approach education itself as a form of critical activism, undermining the traditional power dynamic of teacher and student. Students, as teachers, will be asked to reflect on and share their work in the world as spiritual activists.

The second part will look at specific spiritual activist approaches from various cultural contexts and spiritual traditions. We’ll emphasize traditions that subvert the modern idea that the inner and the outer—world and soul—are distinct and separate realms. Students will then create their own approaches to spiritual activism and present them to the class.

Ultimately, the aim is to see activism—and spirituality—in a different way: more holistic and relational than dualistic and compartmentalized. Through these teachings and through a process of shared inquiry, we will cultivate the connection between the inner life and the outer world, between spiritual practice and our work in the world.