O. Alan Noble Explores Christian Virtue in an Age of Distraction at Drumwright Family Lecture

Baylor University alumnus and author O. Alan Noble, Ph.D., returned to campus for the Honors College's annual Drumwright Family Lecture, challenging students, faculty and community members to consider the importance of Christian virtues in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, social isolation and constant distraction. 

In his lecture, “Living Well in a Time of Uncertainty: Why We Need to Practice the Virtues”, Noble drew from his book, To Live Well, to explore how cultivating virtues such as prudence, justice, courage, temperance, faith, hope and love can help Christians navigate the uncertainty of modern life. 

“Students in the Honors College bring to Baylor not only great academic ability and bold aspirations, but also the difficulties, doubts, and dissipation typical of our time,” said Dean of the Honors College Douglas Henry, Ph.D. “Yet for that, our bright, big-hearted students long to hear and embrace genuine wisdom, well forged in the crucible of mature Christian experience, that can help them live well. Alan’s talk was thus timely, fitting, and inspiring.” 

Noble argued that contemporary society's emphasis on individualism, personal fulfillment and self-sufficiency has left many people disconnected from the communities and moral foundations that help them understand what it means to live well. He pointed to the growing influence of technology and artificial intelligence as forces that can further encourage isolation and dependence on digital tools rather than personal wisdom and meaningful relationships. 

Central to Noble's message was the importance of practicing virtue within community. He encouraged churches, schools and other Christian institutions to create opportunities for meaningful connection, particularly as loneliness and distrust of institutions continue to shape contemporary life. 

“In such environments, churches should be institutions that reach out to people to invite them for coffee, to lunch, for walks,” Noble said. “To have long conversations with people, to look them in the eye. This is the kind of sacrificial love focused on the face of the other that is absolutely crucial in a time of loneliness.” 

Throughout the lecture, Noble emphasized that the virtues are not simply tools for self-improvement but practices that direct individuals toward loving God and serving others. He encouraged the audience to recognize that even everyday decisions can become expressions of faith and hope. 

“When you choose to get out of bed each day, you are saying, in your life, this life is good,” Noble said. “And it's worth embracing, and it's worth fighting for, and it's worth living despite the suffering it brings that you carry and know. That is hope.” 

Noble concluded by challenging attendees to become people of integrity who demonstrate the virtues in their families, churches and communities, reminding them that pursuing a virtuous life is a lifelong process of faith, humility and grace. 

If you are interested in supporting the Drumwright Family Lecture, please reach out to Director of Development Kasey Ashenfelter.