Wake Forest philosophy department announces "Character Project"
The philosophy department at Wake Forest University has announced what it calls The Character Project, which will include grants, conferences, a summer seminar, and an essay prize, and will involve psychologists and theologians as well as philosophers. According to the website for the project:
The past 30 years have seen a resurgence of interest in character, particularly in the areas of psychology, philosophy, and theology. This work has given rise to a number of challenging questions, such as:(i) Do character traits such as honesty or compassion really exist?
(ii) If they do exist, how prevalent are they, and what is their underlying psychological nature?
(iii) Should character traits such as the virtues be the centerpiece of our best ethical theory?
(iv) How should we go about improving our characters and overcoming our character flaws?
(v) For those working in theology, should thinking about human and divine character be central to theological ethics?
Christian Miller, an associate professor of philosophy, is heading the venture.
