The Problems of Acedia: Some Historical and Contemporary Reflections on Distraction and Rest

Religious thinkers and contemporary scientists have seen acedia as a fundamental problem, as it opposes the goal of rest in relationship to the divine and enjoying the goodness of human relationships. Drawing upon Evagrius, Aquinas, and contemporary psychology, Prof. Chris Jones (Barry University) will offer advice on how to identify acedia in the distractions of contemporary life and offers practices to correct its harmful influence.

Chris Jones is Assistant Professor of Theological Ethics and Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at Barry University. 

This lecture was given to the Morningside Institute on March 15, 2021. The Morningside Institute brings scholars and students together to examine human life beyond the classroom and consider its deepest questions through the life of New York City. For more information about upcoming events, please visit https://www.morningsideinstitute.org.