2025-2026 Parkhurst Lecture

Dr. Nicholas Adams
Monday, March 23, 2026 | 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. | Messenger Recital Hall

“Toxic Positivity: How Philosophy Cheerfully Undermines Theology”

Nick Adams (Professor of Philosophical Theology, University of Birmingham) directs the NetVUE Scriptural Reasoning program. This initiative builds capacity among NetVUE institutions to support faculty members and staff in the work of hosting study groups for engaging scripture, primarily among undergraduate students. In addition to helping institutions host Scriptural Reasoning (SR) training hubs in May and June each year, Nick supports the on-campus practice of SR as a tool for exploring vocation. Nick serves as professor of philosophical theology at the University of Birmingham, England, where his teaching and research includes a focus on the practice and theory of SR. He has a lifelong interest in experiments in pedagogy, and his practice in this area is also shaped by the small-group work developed through SR sessions. Nick holds a BA and PhD in theology from the University of Cambridge.