Biology and Christian Ethics

A reasoned look at biological theory since Darwin.

Stephen R. L. Clark (Author)

9780521561310, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 11 September 2000

348 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.1 cm, 0.55 kg

'Clark's book offers a unique and original contribution to the literature. While one may not agree in every respect with the final position that he elaborates, his witty, engaging and thought-provoking account is well worth taking seriously.' Theology and Science

This stimulating and wide-ranging book mounts a profound enquiry into some of the most pressing questions of our age, by examining the relationship between biological science and Christianity. The history of biological discovery is explored from the point of view of a leading philosopher and ethicist. What effect should modern biological theory and practice have on Christian understanding of ethics? How much of that theory and practice should Christians endorse? Can Christians, for example, agree that biological changes are not governed by transcendent values, or that there are no clear or essential boundaries between species? To what extent can 'Nature' set our standards? Professor Clark takes a reasoned look at biological theory since Darwin and argues that an orthodox Christian philosophy is better able to accommodate the truth of such theory than is the sort of progressive, meliorist interpretation of Christian doctrine which is usually offered as the properly 'modern' option.

1. The development of Darwinian theory
2. Moral and metaphysical assumptions
3. Trying to live in nature
4. The biology of sin
5. Human identities
6. The goals of goodness
7. The end of humanity
8. The covenant with all living creatures
9. Conclusion. Cosmos and beyond.

Subject Areas: Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]