The Anne Carroll book is a framework text. The information is interesting, and makes a strong case for a Catholic point of view that is not always considered. It is important, however, that the text be supplemented by the extra readings. The strength of this course is found in the progression of the papers and in the context explored for all the rest of the history ‘conversation’ that the next four years will bring. The literature component is found in the substantial readings (15 books) and the writing of position papers. These papers are ordered such that they incrementally teach the student to present two sides of a position convincingly, and to make a judgment based on a fair deliberation of the issues involved. This skill will be developed in subsequent years.