Two Professors Support Courses In All Religions

Two professors expressed partial agreement last night to a proposal by a Divinity School faculty member that a course in Christian culture be included in the undergraduate curriculum.

Neither John D. Wild, professor of Philosophy, nor Robert P. Ziff, assistant professor of Philosophy, favored the introduction of only a course in Christianity without correspnding classes in other religions, but both would support another comparative religions course.

Wild answered a proposal by H. Christopher Dawson, Charles Chauncey Stillman Guest Professor of Roman Catholic Studies, saying that he would approve of a Christian culture course "with other alternatives." He said that students should have an opportunity to learn about the cultures of other religions as well.

Students are "always close to Christianity and ignorant of many other faiths," Ziff said. He also favored the addition of a comparative religion course or courses on many faiths, including Christianity. Neither professor would go so far as to say that a full department status for religion is feasible at this time, and Ziff pointed out that facilities at the College might not allow such an addition to the curriculum.

Dawson expected much criticism of his proposals at the time he suggested it, suspecting that those opposed to the idea would believe that it would have "a narrowing effect."