Markus Weidler, professor of philosophy at Columbus State University, will deliver a lecture titled "Thinking about the Gap in Paul Tillich's Conception of God" on Thursday, Feb. 8, at 4:30 p.m. in Coastal Carolina University's Johnson Auditorium. Sponsored by CCU's Jackson Family Center for Ethics and Values, the event is free and open to the public.

Weidler will explore the thought of existentialist philosopher and theologian Paul Tillich. Regarded as one of the most influential theologians of the 20th century, Tillich was best known for his examinations of faith, Christian revelation, and human experience through modern culture. Weidler will show the tension inherent in Tillich's thinking about God and explore several ways to overcome this tension.

A native of Berlin, Weidler earned an M.A. and a Ph.D. in philosophy from the University of Texas at Austin. He taught in New Zealand for two years before joining the faculty of Columbus State University in Columbus, Ga., in 2007. His special interests include the dynamics and manifestations of extremist thought associated with the notions of fundamentalism, fanaticism and terrorism.

"Dr. Weidler will be offering a refreshing and critical re-examination of Tillich's understanding of God," said Nils Rauhut, CCU professor of philosophy and director of the Jackson Center. "The lecture should be of great interest to anyone who has an interest in Christianity, theology and existentialism."

The Jackson Center aims to cultivate ethical awareness in the community through programs and events fostering inclusive conversations on important contemporary ethical issues. Upcoming events include "Why Read Fiction? A Philosophical Defense" with Sarah Worth of Furman University on March 15 and a panel discussion on "Transgender and College Life" on April 5.

The James J. Johnson Auditorium is located in Room 116 of the E. Craig Wall Sr. College of Business Administration at 119 Chanticleer Drive E. on CCU's main campus. Parking is available in lot R outside the Brittain Building and adjacent to the Wall Building; for more information, visit coastal.edu/safety/parking.

For more information on the event, contact Rauhut at nrauhut@coastal.edu or 843-349-2547. Visit coastal.edu/jacksoncenter.