More Notes From childhood to adulthood with Jonathan
November 19, 2009 Issue No. 5
Questions and Answers: Jonathan Northrop The words Philosophy and Boys’ Dormitory don’t usually wind up in the same sentence. But, consider this quote, from Rainer Maria Rilke, which describes Jonathan’s thinking about Dorm life at High Mowing: “Once the realization is accepted that even between the closest human beings infinite distances continue, a wonderful living side by side can grow. . .” More Notes was curious to learn more about his thinking:
Q: What is your role at High Mowing? A: I am a full time Boys’ Dorm Counselor and teach Humanities classes along with
various other activities—from ultimate frisbee to weekend cookie-making. I am also the father of two daughters, Amara (4) and Margot (1), and the husband of Leah.
Jonathan Northrop Boys’ Dorm Counselor Alumnus, Class of 1992 High Mowing School
Q: Tell us about the World Religions course you are about to teach.
A: This block class could actually be called “History
through Belief,” as we will be looking at how human belief—religious and otherwise—has changed over the millennia, from prehistory to the modern era and beyond. We will start by inquiring into the nature of religion, looking at its origins and moving through the different historical eras. Along the way, we will hopefully get a taste of the various religious traditions of the world, from Shamanic and indigenous practices to Neolithic and Ancient religions, from the Axial thinkers to the Middle Ages, from the Abrahamic religions to the Eastern traditions, and into the spiritual and secular world views of the modern world. I hope to give the students a living sense of what religious experience is, or points to— rather than just a “download” of information. We will be doing art, journal writing, and engaging in philosophical discussions, as well as writing an essay on a topic chosen by the student.