Community, Liberalism and Christian Ethics

A theological exploration of themes in moral philosophy, and a theological assessment of the debate between communitarians and liberals.

David Fergusson (Author)

9780521498081, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 27 January 2005

236 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.4 cm, 0.31 kg

'This is a tightly argued monograph which makes a significant contribution to the growing prestigious Cambridge series of New Studies in Christian Ethics. A book for students of theology and of philosophy, and for the library shelves of all theological colleges.' Church Times

This book explores some issues on the borderland between moral philosophy and Christian theology. Particular attention is paid to the issues at stake between liberals and communitarians and the dispute between realists, non-realists and quasi-realists. In the course of the discussion the writings of Alasdair MacIntyre, George Lindbeck and Stanley Hauerwas are examined. While sympathetic to many of the typical features of post-liberalism, the argument is critical at selected points in seeking to defend realism and accommodate some aspects of liberalism. The position that emerges is more neo-Barthian than post-liberal. In maintaining the distinctiveness of Christian ethics and community, the book also seeks to acknowledge common moral ground held by those within and without the church.

Preface
1. Introduction
2. Christian ethical distinctiveness
3. Ecclesial ethics - Stanley Hauerwas
4. Moral realism in recent philosophy
5. Virtue, tradition and God - Alisdair MacIntyre
6. Communitarians and its critics
7. Conclusion
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Ethics & moral philosophy [HPQ]