Aquinas, Original Sin, and the Challenge of Evolution

Drawing on Aquinas, Houck proposes a groundbreaking theory of original sin that is theologically robust and consonant with evolutionary theory.

Daniel W. Houck (Author)

9781108493697, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 12 March 2020

292 pages
23.5 x 15.8 x 2.3 cm, 0.54 kg

'Daniel Houck's book offers a notable contribution to the literature on original sin, especially, but by no means only, in relation to Thomas Aquinas. It is also noteworthy as a work at the interface between theology and science, given that Houck's treatment of each is equally deft, with both given the detailed conceptual and historical attention they deserve … It is a particular delight to come across a work of theology so well versed in science.' Andrew Davison, International Journal of Systematic Theology

Is original sin compatible with evolution? Many today believe the answer is 'No'. Engaging Aquinas's revolutionary account of the doctrine, Daniel W. Houck argues that there is not necessarily a conflict between this Christian teaching and mainstream biology. He draws on neglected texts outside the Summa Theologiae to show that Aquinas focused on humanity's loss of friendship with God - not the corruption of nature (or personal guilt). Aquinas's account is theologically attractive in its own right. Houck proposes, moreover, a new Thomist view of original sin that is consonant with evolution. This account is developed in dialogue with biblical scholarship on Jewish hamartiology and salient modern thinkers (including Kant, Schleiermacher, Barth, and Schoonenberg), and it is systematically connected to debates over nature, grace, the desire for God, and justification. In addition, the book canvasses a number of neglected premodern approaches to original sin, including those of Anselm, Abelard, and Lombard.

1. Augustine and the long twelfth century
2. Aquinas on original justice
3. Aquinas on the effects of original sin
4. Aquinas on original guilt
5. Original sin and some modern theologians
6. Original sin and the challenge of evolution
7. Original sin
8. A response to some objections.

Subject Areas: Theology [HRLB], Christian theology [HRCM], Christianity [HRC], Philosophy of religion [HRAB], Religion: general [HRA], Medieval history [HBLC1]