Questions to Explore Winthrop argues against both social equality and individual self-reliance in this speech. What are his reasons, and what do you think of them? Can you think of any specific disadvantages of the considerable equality and individual freedom that we enjoy today as Americans? What does Christian charity look like in practice according to Winthrop? Is it necessary to forget one’s own good in being charitable? Why or why not? What are the most important differences between Winthrop’s understanding of the glue that properly holds a community together and that of the American Founders? Which account do you find more persuasive, and why? Are Winthrop’s vision and the vision of the Founders compatible? Is there a way we might have the best of both worlds, or is there a necessary tension between them? Do you think there are elements of this vision still guiding American society? If so, which? If not, why not? How does Winthrop’s view of what is exceptional about America differ from that of more recent speakers who have appealed to his image of a city on a hill—for example, President Ronald Reagan in his First Inaugural Address?
Questions to Explore Winthrop argues against both social equality and individual self-reliance in this speech. What are his reasons, and what do you think of them? Can you think of any specific disadvantages of the considerable equality and individual freedom that we enjoy today as Americans? What does Christian charity look like in practice according to Winthrop? Is it necessary to forget one’s own good in being charitable? Why or why not? What are the most important differences between Winthrop’s understanding of the glue that properly holds a community together and that of the American Founders? Which account do you find more persuasive, and why? Are Winthrop’s vision and the vision of the Founders compatible? Is there a way we might have the best of both worlds, or is there a necessary tension between them? Do you think there are elements of this vision still guiding American society? If so, which? If not, why not? How does Winthrop’s view of what is exceptional about America differ from that of more recent speakers who have appealed to his image of a city on a hill—for example, President Ronald Reagan in his First Inaugural Address?
1630%20Model%20of%20Christian%20Charity%20discussion.docx