Debating the Undebatable

About the Book

Debating the Undebatable is a sombre narrative of the clash between premodern and postmodern traditions. Set within the fictional Buk University, located in the fictional Republic of New Kush, the novel illustrates the dangers of academic institutions becoming beholden to external financial patrons. The intellectual autonomy of Professor John Kooch, a proponent of premodernist thought, is increasingly stifled as the university’s benefactors align themselves with the postmodernist theories advanced by Professor Thomas Makuach. Professor Kooch, a man of great courage and intellectual honesty, holds steadfast to his convictions. He, however, welcomes any challenge that could genuinely alter his perspective and foster a more enlightened understanding. Yet, the university's benefactors, embracing postmodernism, issue a dire ultimatum: Professor Kooch must cease his critique of Professor Makuach's postmodern theories or face disciplinary measures. The Vice Chancellor of Buk University, succumbing to the intimidating pressure exerted by the institution's financial supporters, yields to the pressure by slashing Professor Kooch's research funding and banning his published works. Overwhelmed by this immense strain, Professor Kooch tragically takes his own life.

About the Author

Dr. Zechariah Manyok Biar is the Diocesan Bishop of Wanglei Diocese in the Episcopal Church of South Sudan. He is one of the seven members of the Theology and Liturgy Board of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan-Anglican Communion and the Chairman of the Liturgy and Worship Commission in Jonglei Internal Province. He is a Research Fellow at Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Theology. He holds a PhD in Systematic Theology from Stellenbosch University, South Africa, in collaboration with the Oxford Centre for Religion and Public Life (OCRPL) in England. His academic pursuits also led him to earn a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry and a Master of Science in Social Work from Abilene Christian University, Texas, USA. His educational foundation was laid at Kampala International University in Uganda, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, majoring in Literature and English.