Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Welcome

Welcome to my blog! It may be best to begin with answers to what are almost certain to be frequently asked questions.

Just who are you?

My name is Nick Senz. I'm a graduate student at the Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology in Berkeley, CA.

Oh really? What are you studying?

You may not be able to guess it from the name of the institution, but I'm studying... philosophy and theology. It's a dual-degree program: three years, two degrees.

Why are you starting a blog?

A few years back when I was in the seminary, I kept a blog, primarily as a tool to help keep folks back home informed about my life while I was away; it was much simpler than having to repeat myself 50-odd times about what I'd been up to. Many people suggested they'd like to see me keep a blog again while I was away at DSPT, and I don't want to disappoint the masses.

Oh, you're not a Californian, then?

Nope. I'm a native Oregonian, specifically from a tiny little town called Verboort, about 25 miles west of Portland, known throughout many parts for its annual sausage & sauerkraut dinner. Perhaps you've heard of it?

What's with the blog title?

It's not a spelling mistake. I just love puns. If the pun doesn't come out clearly enough to enough people, I'll try to come up with something else?

Why are you studying philosophy and theology?

Plan A is to teach theology at the university level, and the study of theology has long been aided and supported by the study of philosophy, traditionally known as "the handmaiden of theology." Plans B-D would all benefit from having done graduate-level study of these subjects.

Why do you want to teach these subjects?

Not only are these subjects which I enjoy studying and engaging, but these are subjects that I believe to be very important for the health of human minds and souls. Philosophy helps us to think clearly, to make distinctions, which is good for our minds. Theology helps us to know God better, which is good for our souls (indeed, to know and love God is the greatest good, the summum bonum).

What can I expect to find in this blog?

Generally, descriptions of what I've been up to, spiced up with a bit of humor. I may also occasionally post thoughts or reflections on things I've learned in class (don't worry, I'll try to boil down the thicker things into concepts or formulations which are easier to swallow). I'll also consider requests (e.g. "More pictures," "Write about X or Y," "Floss more often"), but I don't take commands.


If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Do pass along this website to anyone you think might be interested in seeing it. Enjoy!

4 comments:

  1. My name is David Simon and I approve of this blog name pun. I look forward to hearing your exploits on the field of academic battle. Qapla'!

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  2. My name is anonymous, while I do appreciate you blog pun, might I suggest another? "No NonSenz"
    Thanks for keeping us informed!

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  3. Nick! so glad you shared your blog with me! I love the pun as you know I'm a pun lover myself. Congrats on the move and the start of a new chapter. I look forward to hearing of your adventures! -Rachel Ray :-)

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  4. Finally got it figured out! Keep 'em coming son. <3

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