Distinguished Canadian legal scholar Dr. Benjamin Berger discusses the hidden meanings and politics of secularism. In describing how religion fits into our modern social worlds, it is common to hear the term "secular" used to characterize our collective lives and institutions. In many places in the world, including recently in Canada, the idea of secularism has been turned to as though it might provide the answer to some ot the knottiest challenges of modern political life in a religiously pluralistic society. But what is secularism? What is its history, what work does it do, and what terms can it take? This talk will explore these questions, ultimately arguing that the concept of the secular hides more than it shows.

This is a free event, but a ticket is required. Please reserve your free ticket online or by calling (709) 757-8090. A reception will follow the talk. 

About the Presenter:
Benjamin L. Berger is a Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School of York University. An award-winning teacher and researcher, and a prominent voice in the study of criminal law and sentencing in Canada, he is a Member of the College of the Royal Society of Canada and held the York Research Chair in Pluralism and Public Law.

Presented in partnership with Memorial University's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, The Henrietta Harvey Distinguished Lecture Series brings a highly regarded scholar to Memorial University every year for a guest lecture.

The event is co-sponsored by Memorial’s Department of Political Science and Department of Religion and Culture, with the support of Memorial's Nexus Centre and the Rooms.

 

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Location: The Rooms (9 Bonaventure Ave, St. John's, NL)

Date and Time: Wednesday, Mar. 11 at 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM (NDT)

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