The Life of the Mind: A Christian Perspective - Paperback

by Clifford Williams (Author)

What purpose do purely intellectual pursuits have in the lives of Christians? Why should Christians study subjects that have little bearing on their future careers and ministry? In a style reminiscent of the work of Arthur Holmes and Harry Blamires, veteran professor of philosophy Clifford Williams addresses these issues and more in this succinct and accessible examination of the life of the mind.
Christians cultivating the life of the mind actively pursue situations and discussions that require experimentation, reflection, and perseverance. They are interested in the acquisition of knowledge that is both unrelated and directly related to their faith. Williams answers common Christian objections to such activities, describes the virtues of the person who engages in the life of the mind, and asserts that the life of the mind is justifiably a Christian calling.
The Life of the Mind is directed toward college students contemplating the importance of college and intellectual activity in general, but it will be enjoyed by all committed to developing a Christian mind.

Back Jacket

Clifford Williams offers just the sort of calm, insightful discussion of 'thought' that all students need as they begin their college careers. But because The Life of the Mind so effectively tackles truly big questions such as meaning, popular culture, death, and personal coherence, the book will be useful far beyond the classroom. For thoughtful Christian readers, this volume is a pause with true intellectual refreshment.
-Mark Noll, author of The Scandal of the Evangelical Mind

"Williams captures the allure of learning in fresh and revealing ways. From decades of teaching experience, he reflects on the importance of an inquiring mind and how it can contribute to the development of faith and character in our anti-intellectual culture. Heartily recommended for those asking why college is important."
-Arthur F. Holmes, author of The Idea of a Christian College

"Cliff Williams encourages the thinking Christian to see learning and the life of the mind as vocation. This is a call that the church can and should embrace."
-Robert C. Andringa, president, Council for Christian Colleges and Universities

"The Life of the Mind will help us to think-to think Christianly, to think imaginatively, to think reflectively, to think virtuously. Those who ponder these pages will be renewed to love God with all their minds, to pursue truth, and to live faithfully."
-David S. Dockery, president, Union University

"A refreshing outlook on the nature of Christian living. This book is important reading for anyone who struggles with the relationship between faith and reason."
-Harold Heie, director, Gordon College Center for Christian Studies

Clifford Williams (Ph.D., Indiana University) is professor of philosophy at Trinity College. His works include Singleness of Heart: Restoring the Divided Soul, and With All That We Have-Why Aren't We Satisfied?

Author Biography

Clifford Williams (Ph.D., Indiana University) teaches philosophy at Trinity College in Deerfield, Illinois. His works include Singleness of Heart: Restoring the Divided Soul, With All That We Have--Why Aren't We Satisfied? and On Love and Friendship: Philosophical Readings.