معرفی
Peter Cajka serves as Assistant Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of American Studies at the University of Notre Dame. His academic work bridges historical scholarship with contemporary religious and political discourse, focusing primarily on American Catholic history and its intersections with broader cultural movements.
Dr. Cajka's research interests center on Catholic Studies, the history of ideas, and the history of sexuality, with particular emphasis on the 1960s era. His work explores how Catholic engagement with modern challenges shaped American freedom and individuality. His scholarship demonstrates how conscience rights became central to Catholic responses to debates about conscription and sexuality during this turbulent period.
His acclaimed book Follow Your Conscience: The Catholic Church and the Spirit of the Sixties (University of Chicago Press, 2021) has received significant scholarly attention across multiple disciplines. His research trajectory shows a consistent focus on the intersection of religious thought, moral philosophy, and political action in American history.
- Young Scholar of American Religion (2022-2024)
Dr. Cajka actively contributes to public discourse through media appearances in the Washington Post, New York Times, Indianapolis Star, and other major publications. He teaches courses including 'The Vietnam War & American Catholics,' 'Civil Rights in America,' 'The Ideas that Made America,' and 'America's Culture Wars,' demonstrating his commitment to engaging students with critical American historical narratives.
