Engaging Culture on the Hill

The world is flooded with thoughts and opinions about everything imaginable, from political debates and racial tension to current diet trends and vaccinations. Why, then, should believers engage in conversations about culture? How does a university like DBU do this without just becoming another voice in the sea of many?

Dr. Nick Pitts, Executive Director of DBU’s Institute for Global Engagement, explains, “we find the Good News in today’s news. God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light that can help us make sense of the news in today’s culture. Our cultural conversations seek to apply biblical truth to cultural trends. In this quickening news cycle that is rapidly turning into a news cyclone, such conversations respond to the news with truth and in grace.”

Although these types of conversations take place throughout DBU, the primary way that the university seeks to engage in cultural conversation is by informing and providing opportunities for students to be educated. Through the classrooms, professors engage students in discussion about culture on a daily basis and how the Bible speaks to such topics, while also allowing space for dialogue and questions. By providing resources over just opinions, students develop their own convictions through the lens of a Biblical worldview.

On a larger scale, last fall, DBU began a lecture series called Veritas, led by Lee Bratcher, Director of the Master of Arts in International Studies and Coordinator of the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics, Program. This unique lecture series provides a space for thought leaders and industry professionals to discuss challenging and controversial topics with students.

At the most recent Veritas event, Rwandan Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana came and spoke on the topic of human rights. Later this month, Ed Dolanski, President of Boeing Global Services, will be discussing artificial intelligence and the future of warfare. Previous topics have included anxiety and depression, human flourishing, and more.

In the midst of what can feel like a tumultuous season in our culture, DBU strives to provide Gospel-centered resources and perspectives on cultural topics for both students and the community at large. More resources along these lines will be available very soon!