Altruism and the flourishing teacher: Exploring a Christian theology of love

Abstract

This article responds to Chris Higgins' (2010) claim that perpetuating the myth of altruism is a factor that leads to teacher burnout, thus making ''flourishing teacher'' an oxymoron. It does so by exploring various views of the Christian concepts of agape, kenosis, and desire, debunking some persistent definitions that linger in Christian circles as well as embracing the layers of complexity inherent in a theology of love. The implication for Christian teachers is that because self-sacrifice and self-abnegation are not synonymous, it is possible for them to live lives of altruistic love, avoid burnout, and flourish in their vocations. Implications for teacher educators are also explored.